tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44046691893217077702011-11-13T18:25:00.859-06:00We are excited to have you join us during our year of learning to live from a more joyful place. We will share our journey with you and look forward to hearing about your experiences as well.@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.comBlogger1061100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-20098853950929067692009-02-27T21:12:00.000-06:002009-02-27T21:13:17.312-06:00

Please join us on our new blog: Awaken to Joy

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-81608982643557085492009-02-15T21:11:00.004-06:002009-02-16T16:38:58.980-06:00

I knew there was a reason I was actually watching TV last night, surfing through the channels. I stopped for awhile on the movie The Princess Diaries, long enough to hear the character Mia (aka, the princess) reading a letter from her father. In it was this wonderful quote, quite similar to the one from Sally Kempton I posted several days ago."Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-18366459846057388302009-02-13T17:59:00.003-06:002009-02-13T18:33:52.579-06:00

"...courage and fearlessness are not the same - in fact, if we didn't have fears, we wouldn't need courage. Courage implies moving through fear."~ Sally KemptonReading this really did cause me to stop and think. Images of courage often bring to mind big strong people, drill sargeants and people who are fighting cancer. But I imagine that even they have fear. We may not always see the fear in

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-40304345048790022532009-02-02T12:51:00.004-06:002009-02-02T16:17:22.601-06:00

We are on to another topic - Fear and Unmet Needs. I love the quote Laura used in this week's inspirational e-newsletter:"We are all familiar with the Golden Rule: 'Love thy neighbor as thyself.' But if you do not love yourself as much as your neighbor, you are not living the principle. If you were as kind to yourself as you are to others, you would find great peace and release." ~ Alan CohenI

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-1313188961336414372009-01-26T15:19:00.004-06:002009-01-26T15:29:05.591-06:00

...or anger. Both are paralyzing. And whether you can see it in the moment, they really are the same thing. In the Muselan Monday Morning Musing this week we discuss not making a decision when you are feeling fearful. But what about when you are angry?Often times when things really tick us off, we run out and do something about it. We make a phone call, we write a letter, we get in our car

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-44515404062342399502009-01-19T15:54:00.001-06:002009-01-19T21:16:15.523-06:00

Today I passed a Burger King. Have you seen that they are now selling something called the "Angry Whopper"? As if our food needed to be any angrier. I've seen the commercial too. Farmers shout and yell and spit at the onion while it's growing to try to get it angry. Are we that out of new ideas?This may deserve another discussion in the Eating module but for now I'd just like to know why our

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-18042226603226706082009-01-16T18:38:00.000-06:002009-01-16T18:39:01.696-06:00

"Anger makes you smaller, while forgiveness forces you to grow beyond what you were."~ Cherie Carter-Scott ~

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-44611818979777206782009-01-15T15:42:00.005-06:002009-01-15T16:07:27.949-06:00

I can definitely tell Anger has been on my mind lately. As I type, Dr. Phil is talking with some people who have some real anger issues. He wants to know what gives them the right to talk to another human being that way. The woman's answer? "I'm pissed off!" It seems to me like people are still not really getting to the heart of the matter. I really want to know what she's so mad about -

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-62877519357303016192009-01-13T16:47:00.000-06:002009-01-13T16:47:12.675-06:00

Is anger something that always breeds negativity and aggression or can it be fuel for creativity?"Anger can be an expression of egoic frustration, but that same anger can give you energy in your practice." - Sally KemptonI read this quote recently, along with a similar thought elsewhere, and it prompted a discussion with Laura. Can anger ever be good or beneficial?It was an interesting discussion

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-55624075265397974872009-01-13T15:28:00.003-06:002009-01-13T16:37:17.350-06:00

Hi Everyone! Happy New Year! I have been contemplating since I received the first module morsel this year on what my focus can be. I have for the last several years, (more than a several for those who know me!) been focused on my career. Well, with all the focus and manifesting I do, it is well on its way to developing and it is quite pleasing to be seeing it unfold. So as for my focus, I am

Denisenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-14405384659055558082009-01-11T21:42:00.005-06:002009-01-11T22:37:49.880-06:00

I recently sat down and picked up an old copy of Yoga Journal magazine. I opened up to a random page and started reading. I was not surprised that it opened to an article by Sally Kempton, called Essence of Life. The "essence" of the article was regarding freedom in emotion, an ability to fully connect with and express all levels of emotions without being attached to, and controlled by, your

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-23818771840338861042009-01-08T22:14:00.003-06:002009-01-08T22:18:42.573-06:00

Here is a 7-min podcast of Laura, Marya and Karen discussing our Focus Areas for the year. Karen and Marya have very unique ideas for their year! You know what Karen has chosen (if not, read it here)...but do you know why? Very interesting process she went through. Listen and be inspired for your own Focus Area...

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-62502108273729904692009-01-08T16:48:00.004-06:002009-01-08T17:08:40.000-06:00

This is my 3rd year going through the Awaken To Joy program. For sure it is going to be the best because I have chosen MYSELF as the focus! It took a little time to come to this conclusion. My original thought was to have everyone be my focus but that did not feel right. Then Laura and Marya suggested I focus on myself - brilliant! Thank you both. The Year of Me has officially commenced!

@MuseKarennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-34971315515090242312009-01-06T14:14:00.002-06:002009-01-06T14:25:36.332-06:00

In the inspirational e-newsletter this week, Laura included the following quote:"We are responsible for all the ripples created in others by our anger, as well as the ripples they in turn pass along to the next group." - Sri Harold KlempI know we've all felt it. It's kind of like pay-it-forward, except with a bad check. Just recently I came across an article in TIME magazine, titled "The

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-39733976507822114042009-01-04T21:03:00.002-06:002009-01-04T21:06:09.709-06:00

It is time to renew the year for the program. I am so excited to do it again. I am amazed at how, year after year, I find I can refine my work even more and with each refinement, more joy. Really. I am going to keep my focus on my relationship with my kids because I am pushed to be more conscious with them more than in any other area of my life. I am looking forward to bringing even more

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-5634122504514764522008-12-24T20:52:00.002-06:002008-12-24T20:55:41.444-06:00

As I mentioned in today's Module Morsel, my focus for this holiday season with my family is to feel the spiritual connection between us. I find it can be so tricky with family to maintain my consciousness. It can be very easy to fall back into old ways of being with those from whom I learned them. This holiday I am focusing on the connection, feeling the connection. It has been deeply

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-30789164959739132092008-12-22T10:05:00.004-06:002008-12-22T10:19:09.940-06:00

"At its core, loving yourself simply means believing in your own essential worthiness.  It is nurturing a healthy sense of positive self-regard and knowing in your heart that you are a valuable link in the universal chain.  Loving yourself also means actively caring for every facet of yourself.  It shows up in every action you take, from putting on a sweater to protect yourself from a chill to

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-25661980722739111122008-12-17T12:59:00.002-06:002008-12-17T13:15:44.397-06:00

"Love is above all, the gift of oneself."  - Jean AnouilhIn the book, Love is Letting Go of Fear by Gerald G. Jampolsky, M.D., he tells of a patient of his that came to him with severe depression.  This person was so in despair he believed he had nothing to live for.  Dr. Jampolsky asked him if he knew of anyone that needed help such as meals cooked, deliveries, a visit.  The man mentioned that

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-79548938570711432722008-12-10T16:33:00.003-06:002008-12-10T16:40:44.202-06:00

Of course it's fitting that we study Love in December, that time of the year when almost every people around the world celebrate some sort of major holiday and usually one that promotes reflection, gratitude, joy and love. In what often turns into a busy rush (often centered on material things), allow yourself to slow down and appreciate everything around you. Find things of beauty in your world

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-64592104301197478972008-12-03T15:53:00.003-06:002008-12-03T16:05:12.394-06:00

At the beginning of November I had made a commitment to focus on giving and gratitude for the month. I do a number of different things in my spiritual practice and these two areas are already such a part of what I feel. My commitment then was to expand them. I had joined an online community call 29 Days of Giving with the idea of giving every day and documenting it. I know I give each day,

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-1392906965380110432008-11-12T22:18:00.002-06:002008-11-12T22:31:17.819-06:00

I resonate with today's Module Morsel. Regularly reviewing the efficacy of my practice is essential in my life. Because I know my Spiritual Practice helps me feel grounded and centered, when I am not feeling grounded and centered, I know I need to make a change in my practice. Sometimes I need to shift something because of a change of beliefs. Sometimes I need to rearrange commitments to have

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-39691271178128107142008-11-12T11:37:00.002-06:002008-11-12T11:41:32.960-06:00

Here is a 13 minute podcast in which Laura, Marya, and Tammy discuss this month's focus. You can hear about Marya's very inspiring focus for the month, how Tammy is affected by her practice, and Laura's work to expand her Spiritual Practice without expanding her time on her Spiritual Practice. Enjoy!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-41179395883057622362008-11-10T16:18:00.003-06:002008-11-10T16:28:00.229-06:00

So, I decided my focus for this month was to deepen my daily spiritual practice, specifically my nontraditional practices. I am a mother with small children and I am in the process of beginning a new company. My time is gloriously full so, right now, I choose not to have a long, formal spiritual practice. I prefer to see each moment as an opportunity to be present, practice compassion, and

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-66382094629302953112008-10-30T13:54:00.002-05:002008-10-30T14:12:01.610-05:00

What do you do to get grounded and centered in your heart?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-69664741050087735872008-10-27T21:17:00.001-05:002008-10-27T21:17:50.109-05:00

(Laura) So, I had an interesting chat with Marya today. We were discussing this month’s topic and what we had learned for ourselves. I was mentioning how this month hadn’t been very illuminating for me. I had set a focus for being more aware in my relationship with my extended family. I didn’t think anything had come up for me. Then it hit me, I had had a huge lesson in the area and had

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-61212744350142594722008-10-20T21:42:00.005-05:002008-10-27T15:10:34.559-05:00

"Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change."I think the same can be said for the things you say. Change the way you say things and the things you say (and look at!) change. One of the things I realized in communicating and meeting my own needs is that I sometimes try to accommodate someone else and don't really say what I want. Such as, "Oh, it doesn't matter where

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-24079558189489735762008-10-12T21:08:00.002-05:002008-10-14T21:26:39.268-05:00

So, last week’s Module Morsel was a particular challenge for me. Knowing the difference between blaming myself for a negative interaction (“What did I do/say to make them angry/irritated/impatient?) and being conscious of other people’s feelings while still giving them the space to have their own reaction to me even if it is negative. (I do everything with an open, loving heart and they still

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-16087472500860355272008-10-12T21:02:00.001-05:002008-10-12T21:02:44.996-05:00

When you register for the Awaken to Joy program, you receive a Module Package each month. The Module Package includes a reading (a few pages on the topic by Laura along with some ideas for deepening your study around the topic); a podcast of Laura reading the Module; and you receive the Module Morsel. The Module Morsel is a weekly email in which we share a “snipet” of the monthly reading as

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-21347797347805238742008-10-06T21:04:00.003-05:002008-10-06T21:07:46.021-05:00

Here is a conversation Marya and I had during the Words Module month. I thought it would be particularly useful this month so here it is. In this recording, we discuss communicating as parents, the importance of our words and the energy behind them. Enjoy!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-45105526371437265612008-10-06T12:54:00.004-05:002008-10-06T13:55:00.070-05:00

On last month's teleclass, one of the things we discussed was ways to recognize the needs behind communication. We said that when there is negative communication or negative feelings around a conversation, we can first look to 2 major areas to try and make improvements. The first is unmet basic needs and the other is long held beliefs or issues that we have that creates a negative filter. Unmet

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-91456818453127095962008-10-02T10:49:00.000-05:002008-10-02T10:50:06.817-05:00

"Who speaks, sows; who listens, reaps."- Traditional French Saying

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-54815634844857405412008-10-02T10:46:00.002-05:002008-10-02T10:53:47.910-05:00

I have still been thinking about the negative assumptions piece I have written about here and here. I realize that for me it comes to being more conscious of learning than on teaching. (Tricky for a teacher!) When I am in a learning mode, I pause, I listen more, I have space between my thoughts and my words. Letting myself be open to new ideas, being empty for more as a beginner, rather than

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-66551046225973268332008-09-22T19:02:00.002-05:002008-09-22T19:08:54.880-05:00

Okay, I admit it, I am still in last week’s assignment and observing without evaluating. This topic has been dramatic for me! As I mentioned in an earlier post, I read somewhere that we create negative evaluations (read: "jumped to conclusions" and "making assumptions") in areas where we lack self-esteem. I have found it so true for me and over the weekend I identified an area in which I

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-37638611936464090652008-09-15T21:08:00.003-05:002008-09-15T21:18:14.436-05:00

I was recently reading that a sign of low self-esteem is interpreting things that are said as having negative meaning. In other words, confusing evaluation with observation of facts (our work for the month) is a sign of low self-esteem! So I have started paying attention to when I tend to interpret what someone says as negative. As I work on separating my observations from my evaluations, I am

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-18391503436581915672008-09-11T12:13:00.000-05:002008-09-11T12:14:27.259-05:00

“People are disturbed not by things, but by the view they take of them.” - Epictetus

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-61352442870923396662008-09-06T15:10:00.000-05:002008-09-06T15:56:41.702-05:00

Over the next two months our focus is communication. Our focus is specifically, being able to communicate in a more compassionate way; a way that connects us to others rather than alienating them. In this month, our smaller focus is learning to observe without evaluation. It is our evaluation that causes us suffering so learning this skill will help eliminate much or our challenges in our life

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-2828165457035659182008-09-02T22:08:00.002-05:002008-09-02T22:17:55.023-05:00

It's important to remember that in every situation there really isn't a truth or reality, it is only your perception or view or evaluation of what is happening. Even so-called objective bystanders are only speaking from their viewpoint. In any given situation one person may feel angry, indignant, laughed at or criticized. While the other person may be feeling the exact opposite! So which one

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-55865968871545792732008-08-28T14:01:00.003-05:002008-08-28T14:03:50.088-05:00

As Marya said in our Personal Comments in this week's Module Morsel, we have been helping each other by noticing when we say something we need to rephrase. My husband and I have been doing it with the way we speak to our children, too. Just remember to only do it with a willing partner! I find not everyone appreciates those corrections...:-)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-24872588663860267462008-08-27T10:34:00.000-05:002008-08-27T10:35:10.798-05:00

“You may choose your word like a connoisseur,And polish it up with art,But the word that sways, and stirs, and stays,Is the word that comes from the heart.”-Ella Wheeler Wilcox, 1906

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-30067427360135962172008-08-27T10:25:00.001-05:002008-08-27T10:27:14.542-05:00

Okay, so everyone share. What has shifted for you around words either this month or at any other time in your life? What has made the most difference for you? Inspire us!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-53283013687623618472008-08-26T15:41:00.004-05:002008-08-26T15:52:39.215-05:00

Hi Everyone! I missed our call last night but my pondering of words has been a wonderful August focus. It is amazing as we explore these topics how things manage to really fit each month. I have had several family situations where an exploration of words has been useful. Being able to express feelings in away that is communicating well and not venting. I can spot two frustrating situations that

Denisenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-56134876027065310732008-08-21T09:30:00.001-05:002008-08-21T09:30:56.719-05:00

Remember my quote from a couple of inspirations ago? My “nos” and “don’ts” only served to point out the limitations rather than the possibilities. Well, that thought fueled my entire month, especially with my children. I shared it with my husband, too, and we both worked on it. I cannot even express the transformation it has created in our household. My son is even connecting more deeply

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-28127241459983355232008-08-20T09:58:00.002-05:002008-08-20T10:04:27.285-05:00

Listen to Marya and Laura as they discuss what has been happening for them this month! Just a 10-minute podcast! Enjoy and let us know how your month is going!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-4448692216509620072008-08-11T13:16:00.001-05:002008-08-11T13:16:50.549-05:00

(Marya) Like Laura, my focus for words is also with regards to my children. I think I could work on this one every month of every year! Children are always growing and changing in their own understanding and use of words, and in turn challenging me to do the same. I often find I have to think very fast in order to respond in the loving, supportive way I want. The focus on words in general keeps

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-54327280317079349552008-08-07T11:18:00.000-05:002008-08-07T11:19:10.315-05:00

"In studying my words, I began to take note how often 'no' and 'don’t' came up in my life. It was all too often and the result was always to point out the limitations rather than feed the possibilities." (Laura Erdman-Luntz)Inspiration: Love is expansive and full of possibilities! Feed the possibilities in yourself and others through your words. What one thing can you do today to feed the

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-26323507702384559292008-08-03T20:52:00.001-05:002008-08-03T20:54:27.857-05:00

We are moving into the month on Words. Take a moment to think of one area in your life in which you would like to be more conscious of the words you use. Are there times when you feel unusually negative and slip into language you don’t normally use? Maybe it is gossip, saying “no” too much, or falling into victim language (“I should”, “I have to”, “I need to”). Find an area on place your

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-26705029095031557742008-07-28T18:59:00.001-05:002008-07-28T19:00:48.442-05:00

"If you judge people, you have no time to love them." Mother Teresa

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-16848466718251036402008-07-21T20:57:00.002-05:002008-07-21T21:01:26.292-05:00

When I was discussing what I wanted to think about this month with Karen and Marya (you can find the podcast here), we talked about how judging others is merely a reflection of what we are judging in ourselves. So, I have spent the last few weeks reevaluating my judgment area for the month (my husband's parenting) and investigating what there is to learn for me. Interestingly, we were right! I

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-80625393081982062302008-07-09T11:03:00.003-05:002008-07-09T11:04:48.146-05:00

Here is a 15-minute podcast with Marya, Karen, and me discussing what we will focus on this month with our judgment focus. Enjoy!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-5775500232912156822008-07-05T14:27:00.002-05:002008-07-05T14:35:31.403-05:00

Hi Everyone: The more I look at judgement and control in my life I find out soemthing new constatnly! I found myself in a situation recently that not only was I judging the other person it immediately turned into me judging myself, and then moving into control. I recently did a internet search on controlling behaviors as a lark and come up with a fantastic article on it that really helped me

Denisenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-44485793848166356142008-06-23T10:35:00.002-05:002008-06-23T10:42:56.979-05:00

(Laura) What an incredible month for me! I have so enjoyed taking a deeper look into my self-judgment. What I realized is I have two main areas in which I still have residual judgment, my level of professionalism and my parenting. I have found it extraordinarily helpful to be aware of where I judge myself. It helps me recognize the judgment faster. I had an experience in self-judgment last

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-67576536665475928062008-06-19T16:05:00.003-05:002008-06-19T16:08:06.610-05:00

Hi Laura and Marya: Thank you for such a great module morsel this month. Being able to step back and look at my part in a situation is extremely helpful and takes me out of the "emotion" of the moment. When ever I judge someone else it is just a red flag for me that I am not looking at something!Thank you for the reminders this month, I will use them!!Denise

Denisenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-55326771045515883882008-06-14T15:18:00.002-05:002008-06-14T15:25:17.565-05:00

Hi All! (Denise) Each time I have looked at this as a focus something new comes to light. I notice that my husband and I are both very judgemental of ourselves. And hearing him do it to himself makes me wonder what I sound like if I speak my self judgements outloud. I have, ever since I can remember, have had the feeling that whatever I am doing is not quite good enough. And it haunts me at

Denisenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-46390414353279155252008-06-12T12:45:00.003-05:002008-06-12T14:44:52.011-05:00

As I wrote in my last post, I spent Sunday and Monday in a bit of self-judgment. I can tell you how I felt and what it did to my Focus Area! I felt so negative and I could feel old patterns of negative thinking coming up again to visit me -- all because I was judging myself -- making myself wrong. When I feel that negative, it also brings up my old parenting patterns, the ones I released for a

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-19167699472658910802008-06-09T21:29:00.003-05:002008-06-12T14:44:11.820-05:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that I was looking forward to studying this topic this year. I have released much of my self-judgment in my studies through this program and thought maybe I was done with it. Not so, my friends! The specter of self-judgment reared its ugly head in my life today -- more to learn. There was a misunderstanding at the building where I rent space to teach yoga.

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-17984980360319578592008-06-09T13:10:00.001-05:002008-06-09T21:27:35.993-05:00

With each layer of judgment, we put another barrier between ourselvesand being truly present in this moment.”(Andrew Weiss)How do you feel when you are judging yourself? You cannot be truly present when you are judging yourself because your thoughts are about something that happened in the past. Judgment keeps us stuck in a negative mental loop that’s foundation is in the past. If you made a

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-8265366905981603032008-06-05T22:31:00.004-05:002008-06-05T22:46:45.629-05:00

Last month in exploring eating, I also learned a lot about self-judgment. I started the month partaking in a cleanse type diet. I made it about a week and then slowly returned to most (not all) of my prior eating habits. In hindsight it may not have been the best time to start. I was feeling fatigued already and hoped the cleanse would help flush out whatever was causing it. Instead I just

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-52676097678419674142008-06-05T12:21:00.002-05:002008-06-05T12:23:12.909-05:00

I have so looked forward to this module this year! As Marya mentioned in today's Module Morsel, I, too, have released much self-judgment in my studies with this program. I know there is more and I am looking forward to feeling even lighter and brighter!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-58207472789065475082008-05-28T08:30:00.000-05:002008-05-28T08:30:01.684-05:00

I often think back to days gone by (not necessarily my own) when people spent most of their time growing, harvesting and cooking. Not that I would trade most of my leisure time to procure all of my food and yet we've gone so far from it. I do delight in having a garden and being able to grow at least some of my own food.This past weekend I planted many things I started growing from seed. I

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-66900655733356063572008-05-27T14:33:00.002-05:002008-05-27T14:45:26.339-05:00

(Denise) Hi Everyone!!! this topic is excellent, I have seen so many changes in food over the last few years. I would say that I feel the best now that I have ever felt. Never realizing thatmuch of my moods and sluggishness was due to my diet. I am wheat and soy free at this point, and amazing how light I feel.One of the biggest realizations I made on food was around abundance in my life.

Denisenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-57286097572832894722008-05-26T09:33:00.001-05:002008-05-26T09:34:42.236-05:00

“Food is a much more powerful tool for transformation than we realize. Imagine where you want to be and eat like that person would eat. What we need is something we already know somewhere,we just don’t have the energy or the inclination to put it into practice.” (Laura Erdman-Luntz)Share with us one thing you envision changing to reflect who you are becoming. Will you commit to it today?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-13147485675707734602008-05-19T23:29:00.002-05:002008-05-19T23:32:55.633-05:00

I have been considering this week's quote today:“What if the Buddha came to dinner at your house? Or Jesus? Or God? Would you serve what you normally eat? If not, why not? And, more importantly, why do you not eat that way every day?” (Laura Erdman-Luntz)I don't eat dairy due to physical sensitivities but miss cheese desperately and feel deprived. Last night I was at a dinner party and someone

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-18980643833676493592008-05-19T10:41:00.000-05:002008-05-19T10:42:00.263-05:00

“What if the Buddha came to dinner at your house? Or Jesus? Or God? Would you serve what you normally eat? If not, why not? And, more importantly, why do you not eat that way every day?” (Laura Erdman-Luntz)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-71511926794581970232008-05-15T23:09:00.000-05:002008-05-15T13:47:46.899-05:00

(Marya) This has been an interesting month! After hearing about it from a friend, this month I decided to undertake a detox/cleanse type diet plan call Fat Flush. It is a plan to lose weight but a lot of what is in the plan includes detoxing or cleansing the body (hence the "flush") , pretty intensely for the first 2 weeks. Part of that includes eliminating the most common foods that cause

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-78575266439970360942008-05-15T21:06:00.000-05:002008-05-15T21:07:52.325-05:00

So this month has been interesting for me. Marya has been going through a food detox for herself and talking about her challenges with her clearing her carbohydrate addiction. I have an incredibly clean diet (what comes of being wheat-, dairy-, and corn-free with no white sugar) so I didn’t think I had my carbohydrate addiction anymore. (Years ago I needed two bagels each day to feed my need

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-50400346127893064022008-05-14T20:28:00.002-05:002008-05-15T13:20:32.059-05:00

Where I want you to begin is more from an energetic standpoint. Pay attention to how you feel as you are eating and for about an hour afterward. Here are some questions for yourself as you are eating:• Does this smell and look good to me?• Is it what I want right now?• As I eat it, does it feed my hunger both physical and mental/emotional?Still not sure if you are affected by food?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-44577748369173746142008-05-05T21:10:00.001-05:002008-05-05T21:10:43.907-05:00

"I took the time to understand the challenges that I am facing in my life right now and I feed those challenges with proper nourishment." (YLC Participant)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-1913758152530016272008-04-28T10:06:00.003-05:002008-04-28T10:08:36.040-05:00

Okay, so after I posted last week's thought, I was bombarded with examples of how I do not reflect myself exactly how I am in the moment. What I mean is, I heard the "voice" in my head saying things like, "Well, this is what always happens." "Well, this is how you always feel." Hmmm...I wasn't allowing myself to grow. I had expectations of the old person. It has been quite insightful for

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-20853443552764357482008-04-22T22:34:00.003-05:002008-04-22T22:37:48.811-05:00

I have been reflecting on this week's quote quite a bit this week, thinking about how we have such expectations when it comes to how other people will be. There is a lovely thought in the Yoga Sutras (the precepts of yogic philosophy) that says our goal is to reflect others like a crystal. What it refers to is being able to see people precisely as they are in that moment. We see them clearly

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-17809754718036270042008-04-21T13:23:00.002-05:002008-04-21T13:24:37.251-05:00

“I had become a new person; and those who knew the old person laughed at me. The only man who behaved sensibly was my tailor: he took my measure anew every time he saw me, whilst all the rest went in with their old measurements and expected them to fit me.” -George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) Man and Superman, 1903

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-81921894882192006382008-04-14T14:00:00.001-05:002008-04-21T13:25:09.797-05:00

“Be gentle with everyone, for everyone is fighting an inner battle.” (unknown)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-32706978958209051752008-04-10T20:23:00.001-05:002008-04-10T20:24:49.042-05:00

(Sorry I haven't posted much for a month. Between a long illness, trip, and, frankly, not inspired, I just didn't have anything to write. I do now, though, and look very forward to blogging on this Module...)Have you written down a mission statement for your Community? Writing it down is an important step for making it even more real. Once you have your mission statement, ask yourself if you

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-74293980391293249222008-04-07T13:47:00.001-05:002008-04-07T13:49:07.078-05:00

"You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with leave you feeling."- Jim Rohn

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-56801781165140971182008-03-31T21:14:00.003-05:002008-03-31T22:04:49.399-05:00

(Marya) Today's inspirational quote got me thinking about the 5 people I spend the most time with. Who are they? How do I feel being around them? I think what I've discovered is that I really have 2 circles - my immediate family (husband and children) and other family and friends that I spend a lot of time with. Of course I spend most of my time with my family. I have a husband and 3 kids.

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-47093384118948507012008-03-21T22:56:00.004-05:002008-04-24T21:47:40.972-05:00

(Marya) I started on a media fast earlier this month, without really trying. The effects have been interesting nonetheless. I have not watched the news for some time (since the first time I did this program probably). Then, late last year I switched my Internet home page, which was previously set to MSN (news). I am fairly out of the news loop, however, the one thing I still had was our local

Maryanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-72375824297949506552008-03-21T15:04:00.005-05:002008-03-21T15:34:10.396-05:00

When I worked in the 8 to 5 world the "wakeup alarm" was the radio set to a well known national talk radio station. After leaving the 8 to 5 world, the alarm is not always on and was not for the first 16 days of March - for no other reason than it just wasn't :-) My husband wanted to get up early on March 17th and asked me to set it. The next morning I woke up to what I will call "bad news". It

@MuseKarennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-78776290676584229242008-03-11T23:28:00.005-05:002008-04-24T21:47:12.884-05:00

(Marya) I have lots to share about the media this month! Where to begin? First, my husband has discovered YouTube and has been watching quite a bit lately. Yesterday he shared that he watched several videos from 9/11 the other night. He said he hadn't been searching for that topic, nor did he plan to watch a 71 minute video. What he also discovered was that by the end of the video, he grew

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-17697645630397486062008-03-10T12:26:00.002-05:002008-03-10T12:35:02.245-05:00

Okay, I admit it, I was wondering what I could possibly need to do in the media department to increase consciousness more. I already don't watch TV, read magazines, books that have any sort of negativity attached to them. I don't even see msn.com or yahoo.com anymore. (I identified them last year as my big challenge -- even seeing the headlines briefly as I passed by to my mail affected me).

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-15559623528715894672008-03-01T12:05:00.001-06:002008-03-01T12:05:52.037-06:00

Last time we did the program we focused entirely on fear on this teleclass. This time we talked all about unmet needs. So, I want to share a thought that came out of the last program’s call around fear. Here is your question to ponder: Is there such a thing as a “realistic fear”. What does that mean for you? In your fear area in your life, how does the fear help you?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-75417820103646900322008-03-01T12:03:00.000-06:002008-03-01T12:04:20.813-06:00

One great idea that came out of the call this week was letting go of how your needs should be met. One participant mentioned previously feeling very attached to how her needs were met (mostly, who needed to say what). She felt a tangible shift this month and was incredibly surprised to find her need being met in a completely unexpected way. (Interesting to note that the expectation of wanting

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-75470862757448683132008-02-26T10:25:00.003-06:002008-02-26T10:33:31.437-06:00

Hi Everyone, This month was especially enlightening. I found that keeping myself in touch with my needs, keeps fears at bay but does not eliminate them. I have discovered a very deep fear for myself, the fear of not being ready to help someone in need. Be it a family member, client or stranger. I do not trust my own abilities, knowledge and intuition fully. My focus area being my family is

Denisenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-239298647887495782008-02-25T13:02:00.004-06:002008-02-25T13:29:33.680-06:00

(by Karen) February has been very interesting for me as I have been sick and recovering every day of it. I went out of town to help my husband with a work project and just when I returned, I became very ill. I have questioned why many times. The more I am able to look back on it, I know I have my answer, it is from unmet needs.I went to a place I did not want to travel to, to do work that does

@MuseKarennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-69645349113355040842008-02-25T12:12:00.003-06:002008-02-25T12:19:05.315-06:00

Oh, my! Where or where do I begin? This month was an incredibly powerful learning experience around fears and unmet needs. My biggest lesson, though, was around receiving. In order to get your needs met, you need to receive what others and the Universe are handing you. Ultimately it comes down to feeling worthy of receiving. Hmmm...I have a hard time admitting to myself that I have felt I

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-31278539741766155752008-02-25T12:10:00.002-06:002008-02-25T12:11:17.772-06:00

"Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn." (Marianne Williamson)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-38500767658372783882008-02-20T08:41:00.001-06:002008-02-20T08:43:27.244-06:00

Okay, it is time to pick on thing to do daily to help get my needs met. I have been doing a breathing and meditation practice every morning lately and it is fabulous! I am going to keep that exercise up and use it to consciously get my needs met. What are you doing?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-1148427504770917272008-02-13T17:56:00.000-06:002008-02-13T17:57:12.598-06:00

So, remember my decision to work with fear this month? Also remember my last post, feeling money issues were in the past and, since money issues have always been the “big fear” for me, I haven’t had much to work with this month. I was with Marya this weekend and she mentioned how she has been finding quotes on the fear piece everywhere. She chuckled, saying it was the message from the Universe

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-31294243083973992922008-02-13T17:45:00.001-06:002008-02-13T17:45:39.640-06:00

"Sometimes a situation frustrates me and other times the same situation doesn't bother me at all. Taking care of myself makes all the difference."-YLC Participant from 2006

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-54596490845679334962008-02-08T10:30:00.000-06:002008-02-08T10:34:18.329-06:00

As I mentioned in the Module Morsel this week, money was my “big fear”. (Yes, I am thrilled to announce, I can finally use the past-tense referring to it!) It took me a long time to realize it was my big fear because I didn’t see it as a “fear”. Let me rephrase, I knew I was fearful around money, I just didn’t know I had a choice about how I felt. I saw my anxiety around money as “realistic”

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-707176513063537612008-02-05T22:44:00.001-06:002008-04-24T21:46:27.738-05:00

(Marya) I'm still having a hard time choosing so I'm going to work on both Fear and Unmet Needs. I've let go of a lot of fears already yet I keep finding quotes and articles on the subject recently. I'm open to what may present itself there. I also had a recent realization that often I'm more fearful, or dwell on my perceived fears more, when my basic needs haven't been met. They do go hand

Maryanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-45055947845177113792008-02-04T20:31:00.000-06:002008-02-04T20:34:41.374-06:00

(Laura) In the Module I encourage you to choose either fear or unmet needs to think about this month. What did you choose? If you still aren't sure, choose the one you think affects your Focus Area the most. Let us know!

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-28052040359846198092008-02-04T20:29:00.000-06:002008-02-04T20:34:15.663-06:00

“Be patient and loving with every fearful thought.Practice observing your fears as a witness, and you’ll seem them dissolve.”(Wayne Dyer)

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-79101623948741355272008-02-02T14:35:00.001-06:002008-02-02T14:38:47.257-06:00

(Laura) Time to move on to the next month's topic. I think I am going to focus on fears. I have been studying surrender in my life and I would love to release another level of surrender around my fears. Should be an interesting month...

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-57055676866292098992008-01-25T11:16:00.001-06:002008-01-25T11:16:31.187-06:00

(Laura) I can personally attest to this week’s Module Morsel thought (which is why I wrote it!) I experience so much less anger now that I understand what makes me angry. It isn’t even that I need to “control” my anger (control is just an illusion anyway), it is that I have access to a different path. My anger isn’t a necessary path or outlet, I can choose something else.

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-18520524724380176032008-01-22T21:51:00.001-06:002008-05-15T13:45:47.585-05:00

My Internet home page is set to Wayne Dyer's Daily Inspiration. This is the inspiration for today:I release the need to determine how things “should” be.If you are suffering in your life right now, I can guarantee that this condition is tied up with some kind of attachment to how things should be going.I think this fits so beautifully with our discussion. For me right now it's not about being

Maryanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-22920454138658398062008-01-19T11:41:00.000-06:002008-01-19T11:52:17.898-06:00

I have been thinking about this week’s Module Morsel, specifically Marshall Rosenberg’s idea that anger is from blame. Is there a connection between blame and feeling you are right? (Or am I getting a bit too esoteric! ☺ ) It just feels that blaming and feeling you are right are both ways of making the other person wrong. And, can’t help but see the control in each of those. We have an idea

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-46348025773219933012008-01-15T21:12:00.000-06:002008-01-15T21:14:22.850-06:00

(Here is something from one of our participants who wanted to remain anonymous. What do you think?)I had a little dilemma and thought well this was perfect for the compassion club. My focus this year is my family and as of late a little issue with my Mom. She has enormous trouble sleeping, and has ever since I can remember. She does take many medications that are supposed to help but I also

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-67554405539365090902008-01-14T21:07:00.000-06:002008-01-14T21:09:16.379-06:00

“You feel good not because the world is right, but your world is right because you feel good.” -Wayne DyerWhat do you think?

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-57441499903004459312008-01-11T21:03:00.000-06:002008-01-14T21:09:08.187-06:00

“We cannot become angry unless we believe we are right. Today when you feel irritated about something, breathe deeply and allow being right to melt into being present.”Here is a quote from Judith Lasater from her book Living Your Yoga. What do you think? Let us know if you have any experiences around this thought...

@MuseLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18242543025805548527noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-85492683997924993772008-01-10T13:53:00.001-06:002008-05-15T13:45:20.981-05:00

(Marya) Actually, nothing! Yay! Talk about a transformation! In 2006 I did this program (then called A Year of Living Nonviolently) because I actually felt, well, violent. I could feel anger bubbling all over in me. That year helped me tremendously, most especially to figure out exactly what I was angry about. I've come a long way, baby.My mission for this year is to be more compassionate

Maryanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4404669189321707770.post-35297099545873456952008-01-07T13:46:00.000-06:002008-01-09T16:52:07.103-06:00

(by Karen) I am not one for letting go, and I am not one for restorative yoga. I get IMPATIENT and IRRITATED in restorative yoga. Forever, I thought it was because of all the folding of blankets and the organizing and placement of all the props. Wrong! I was feeling the irritation because I knew that after I got everything set up, my work in that pose is to let go, to give up control. Interesting

@MuseKarennoreply@blogger.com3