Freedom!

 FREEDOM

From the CSL Global Vision: "We envision a world in which we live and grow as One Global Family that respects and honors the interconnectedness of all life; a world where kinship with all life prospers and connects thorough the guidance of spiritual wisdom and experience."

As we wrap up our February theme of One Journey, Many Paths we turn our attention to the concept of Freedom. Each of us experience freedom in a variety of ways depending on what part of the world we grow up in. Over the last year we've all be a part of a Global pandemic that has left many people feeling that our freedom has been limited. Others feel that due to technology our freedom has been expanded. Never before, in modern history, have we experienced something that has impacted every one on the planet at the same time. We may not all like some of the limitations or all enjoy the expansions, however we always have the freedom to choose how we react to them. 

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Nelson Mandela

There are a variety of ways to explore the concept of Freedom. Freedom is our Divine birthright. All people have the freedom to make their own choices. We think for ourselves. We pick our own words, do our own things, and make our own decisions. That means we get to create our own life, and decide what kind of life we want to live. We get to choose happiness and how we respond to our relationships and the world around us. For every freedom we have, comes the responsibility to make the best choices for ourselves and for each other. 

“May we think of freedom not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.” Peter Marshall

This week, set aside some time to explore the various ways you experience freedom. Some topics could include: Freedom of choice. Freedom of thought. Freedom to make mistakes. Freedom to be or play on your own. Freedom to believe in yourself. Freedom to help others. You may even find more areas to explore. Below are a few questions to get you started. 

What choices do you make on your own? What dreams or thoughts do you have during the day? What thoughts or dreams do you have about your future? Do you give yourself the freedom to make and learn from mistakes? If not, what would it feel like if you did? What are some things you really enjoy doing? 

“Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.” Mahatma Gandhi

You have the freedom to be whoever you want to be. You do this by listening to your own heart and your inner guidance or Spirit-self. Visualize what kind of person you want to be when you grow up. What will you be doing? Where will you live? How will you give back to the world? Remember you have the power and freedom to create your reality through your thoughts. Choose good ones.

AFFIRMATIONS: 

I have freedom to choose what I think. 

I have a freedom to choose what I feel. 

I have freedom to choose what I do. 

I make good choices.

"I am free to be the glorious me that I am." Susan Robinson

PEBBLE Meditation:

This week we explore the Pebble Mediation. The link below is from a video from Plum Village so you can watch how a pebble meditation is done. Weather permitting - go on a family hike and gather 4 pebbles that speak to you for each step of the process.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEefWQMXJOI&feature=youtu.be

I'm also inviting you to do a google search for another cool find, it's a mindfulness blog - called "Education's Voice" (on wordpress.com) Unfortunately the link won't share on my blog, however it has information on the pebble mediation and so much more! A cool place for families and teachers to explore. 

MUSIC: 

This weeks music comes to you from two amazing and very different artists, Pharrell Williams with Freedom (lyrics) and India Arie with Strength, Courage and Wisdom from her album Beautiful. Bypass the adds and enjoy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oq0vaYfj1TI&feature=youtu.be 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsC1vA5Gcr8&feature=youtu.be

BOOKS: 

So many great books to explore. A few have links and a few do not, however don't let that stop you from checking them out! 

Dreams of Freedom - by Amnesty International 

We are all Born Free - by Amnesty International

We've got the Whole World in our Hands - Art by Rafael Lopez

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnill8oP3zg

Henry's Freedom Box - by Ellen Levine, Art: Kadir Nelson Based on the true story from the underground railroad of Henry Brown's creative and courageous journey to freedom!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6rf9bxDK1o

Have a wonderful week exploring all the ways you experience Freedom! 

(Photo credit to Allen-Taylor on Unsplash)

One Mind, Infinite Connections ~ The Golden Rule

One Mind, Infinite Connections - The Golden Rule

 There is a common thread of truth that runs through almost every religion and faith tradition in the world. Just as a river has many streams and waterways that feed into it and stretch beyond it, so does the practice of The Golden Rule. It is a simple message told in many stories. It flows like the water ways in a variety of paths that lead to the same Universal Truth of Compassion & Oneness. It invites us to consider treating other people the way we wish to be treated.

"I believe in the power of one and that we are all bound by the thread of oneness and humanity." Dia Mirza 

Through our teaching we recognize there is One Mind, or One Spirit that expresses itself through Infinite connections. You and I are a part of this One Life. We may live in different parts of the World, yet we share one planet. Our resources come from this planet we share. Our traditions and languages may be different, yet every person has the ability to act from loving kindness. To treat themselves and others with fairness and to show compassion. 

The Golden Rule is about learning to see, acknowledge and respect the sameness in all of us. Through the Golden Rule we also learn to establish a positive self perception. In order to treat others with kindness we first show kindness to ourselves.

The words of the golden rule are spoken in a variety of ways. The common english version is:  "Do unto others as you would have the do unto you." In other words, "Treat others the way you wish to be treated." 

"Do things for people not because of who they are or what they do in return, but because of who you are." Harold S. Kushner

Here are a few examples from Faith traditions around the world: 

Taoism: "Regard your neighbor's gain as your own gain and your neighbor's loss as your own loss."

Islam: "Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you."

Christianity: "Thou shalt love they neighbor as thyself"

Buddhism: "Hurt not others in ways that you would find hurtful." 

"To love God and to love our neighbor as ourselves means to see God in everything and to include everyone in one divine unity." Ernest Holmes 

Have you ever noticed that a small act of kindness has the power to brighten your day? That same kindness when shared by you with another person creates an uplifting ripple effect, inviting them to treat others with kindness too. Why do you think that is? How does it feel when people are kind to you? 

Now try a different path. Have you ever noticed that a harsh word spoken to or at you can leave you feeling small or sad? 

When we use our words in a harsh and unkind way to others it does not make us more powerful, it turns us into a bully. The Golden rule works here too ~ Do not to others, which would cause you pain if done to you. 

You get to choose every day, every moment how you wish to show up in the world, and how you wish to treat the people around you. What will you choose today?

Affirmations: 

“My life flows from the universal wellspring of Spirit/God's Love” Susan Robinson, RScP

"My thoughts have power, I choose the good ones." Unknown

"I Am One with God, You are One with God, We are One with God" Unknown

"I help create a world where it is safe to love each other." Louise Hay

Meditations: 

Peace Out/Friendly Wishes from Cosmic Kids
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtYIQiXyrsE 

Loving Kindness Meditation from GoZen!Meditations

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9_ZHnltMe0

Music: 

The Golden Rule by the group A Thousand Horses. Get you Kazoos and join in!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ph9rRS9k15c

Golden Rule - Nature Jams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnhMZpE_rfo&feature=youtu.be

Books:

The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule - early readers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YWVz9C9O7U

The Golden Rule - by Ilene Cooper - Art by Gabi Swiatkowska
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8OqwZvEorI 

Do Unto Otters - a book about Manners - by Laurie Keller

A quirky story that highlights what it means to be a good friend. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-K9Q3NIVD8

Creativity:

This week think of small acts of kindness or kind things you can do for your neighbors, while staying safe. 

Draw a large heart on a piece of paper, then add lines to create sections or puzzle pieces within the heart. For each section write in things you enjoy or like, then color it any way you like. 

If you are looking for more creative ideas check out my Pinterest page here:

https://www.pinterest.com/suzlight2/class-art-projects/

Have a great week everyone! 

(Special thanks to Shiya Stone and Janelle Shiers - Photo taken by Me :o)

The Infinite Invisible ~ Love and Unity

 The Infinite Invisible - Love and Unity

In the book, The Infinite Invisible, author Joel Goldsmith writes, "Put into practice what you already know... as a means to having prayers answered. The painter paints, the dancer dances, the chef cooks, but what of the mystic? Mystical living is not intellectually achieved, the mystic lives the mystical experience by letting God be God as them."

"Never look down on someone unless you're helping them up." Jesse Jackson.

Today is Valentine's Day. A common practice this time of the year is to share or send loving greetings sometimes anonymously, with friends and family members. But what about you? Did you send yourself love today? Love could be considered a mystical quality. It is invisible, yet it can be felt and experienced. You can witness loving acts being expressed and love takes on many shapes and forms. Sometimes it may be easier to give love than receive love. Yet loving ourselves is a way of honoring the unique expression of the Divine that we are. YOU are an expression of the most powerful act of Love there has ever been. Be it. Know it. Then share it. 

"If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours." Dolly Parton

We may each look different on the outside, each having distinct elements that are individual to just us. However, we are all the same on the inside. We all have feelings. Hearts that beat, lungs that breathe, blood that flows. Learning to appreciate what makes us unique and recognizing the things we have in common with others, helps build Unity and connectedness. Unity in nature is beautiful. Every creature has a role to play, as does every plant, tree, blade of grass or a drop of water. We humans are on a journey of discovery. Each on our own path seeking to find what is ours to do in this life. It would be so boring if we all did things exactly the same. Give yourself the opportunity to try new things. Be open to new ideas, new foods, new to you traditions. Take it all in and celebrate the diverse way we all share this amazing thing called Life.

"Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire." Jennifer Lee

Here are a few questions and suggestions for you to explore in conversation with friends or family during the week. What is something you have recently learned? What new thing have you recently tried doing? What food have you never tried that you would like to? What makes you uniquely you? What is something you've always wanted to try/do yet haven't had the chance yet? What is one thing you can do for yourself to express self love? What is one thing you can do for others?

Meditations and Mindfulness 

I am a Healing Presence - A short healing meditation from Unity https://youtu.be/zfhjJGKB2Fc 

Cupids Bow Breathing - Think of someone to send loving kindness or healing to. Stretch both your arms toward the sky, knuckles together. Pull one fist back towards your chest, while breathing in deeply. The breathe out, making a whooshing sound as you bring the arm back up to the arm still in the sky. Open your closed hands, and sprinkle love and kindness down around the person you are now imagining is in front of you. Repeat as desired for anyone else you wish to send loving kindness or healing to. (Adapted from the book, Mindful Arts in the Classroom- Andrew Jordan Nance)

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Peacemakers of Unity! February is Black History Month 

Take some time this month to honor those who worked to create Unity and spread Love in the world. Two figures stand out in this area, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. Below are some quotes and links for you to do your own research of these men who had the courage to change the world for the betterment of all. 

12 messages from the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi

1.    Believe in yourself and do what is right.

2.    Keep trying till you succeed.

3.    Be humble.

4.    Live a simple and sustainable life.

5.    Practice cleanliness.

6.    Change yourself if you want to see the change.

7.    See no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil. Also tolerate no evil!

8.    Be thoughtful of what you say. Think before you speak.

9.    Use anger creatively to find solutions of love and truth.

10.  Think positive.

11.  Learn to forgive and forget.

12.  Take the path of peace to resolve conflicts and tough situations.

12 messages from the teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr.

1.    Dare to dream... and dream big.

2.    Love others.

3.    Don't judge someone by their appearance.

4.    Do not give up! Push on and persevere.

5.    To succeed, you must work hard.

6.    Education is of the utmost importance.

7.    Serve others.

8.    Forgive.

9.    Stand up for what is right.

10.  Live life with purpose.

11.  Have faith.

12.  All things are possible.

Creativity and Books:

Love Bug Project: https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/resources/free-resources/crafts/loveBug

Peace Crafts: https://www.pinterest.com/suzlight2/peace-crafts/

Stand Tall Molly Lou Mellon - by Patty Lovell, Art by David Catrow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wAWAHAr63M

Life - by Cynthia Rylant, Art by Brenden Wenzel. goodreads.com/book/life

Inside my Heart - by Shiya Stone - both a book and a creative activity as you can color in the hearts. smile.amazon.com/Inside-My-Heart-Shiya-Stone

Be awesome to yourself this week ~ Love, Susan

(Special thanks to: Shiya Stone, Adrienne Cherry, Pat Winegar)

Practicing Presence and Self Awareness with a Clean Slate

 

Practicing Presence and Self Awareness with a Clean Slate

We envision humanity awakening to its spiritual magnificence and discovering the creative power of thought; a world where each and every person discovers his/her own personal power and ability to create an individual life that works within a world that works for everyone.

It may very well be that children have an easier time being present than adults do. To be in the moment, is the natural state of life. It is the only moment we can be in. We can not go back to the past and the future isn't here yet. However our minds sometimes get stuck in thoughts of the past, or day dream of things to come in the future. When this happens we aren't fully aware of our present, our now. Taking time to explore the way we think is a spiritual practice. It helps us focus and notice when our minds drift to other thoughts.

"If you're always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be." Maya Angelou 

When we begin to think about our thinking it's helpful to ask ourselves a few questions to explore what holds our attention and what causes distraction. When we know what those things are, we are better able to navigate being in the present moment instead of daydreaming about the past/future or some other grand adventure. Here are a few questions to get you started. When are you the most alert and focused? (In the morning? after a meal? when you've had a good nights sleep?) What are some of the things that distract you from being fully present in the moment? Is there a pattern of thought that occurs or reoccurs? Do you often think about things in the past or future, and if so which one?  What are some of your favorite ways to be in the present moment? 

"Your emotions are energy in motion. They need a creative and safe way to express through you." Adrienne Cherry 

Our emotions also play a part in how well we are present and self aware. If we've had an emotional upset it may take a minute, or 30, to become present in the now. The same thing happens when we've had a really amazing experience. Our thoughts pull us backward so we can feel the joy a bit longer. The term "A Clean Slate" comes from the time when people would write on a chalk board. Starting from a clean slate, meant that you wiped the board clean and started fresh. Sometimes we need to do this with our thoughts in order to become present. Take a moment to imagine erasing away all the distracting thoughts from your mind. Let them disappear into nothing. Then slowly open your eyes and get on with the task at hand. 

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Here are a few affirmations to help you remain in the Now ~ Present and Self Aware.

"I am open to the promise of a clean slate which every moment holds." Rev. Cindy Grimes

I give myself permission to to take care of the spirit within me -Adrienne Cherry

“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” Alice Morse Earle

February is also Black History Month. Below are a few website links that you and your family can explore to bring greater awareness and presence in your home and the world. 

https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/black-history-month-resources/

https://www.readingrockets.org/calendar/blackhistory

https://www.storylineonline.net/library/?search=black%2520history

Creative Activities ~ Mindfulness ~ Meditations ~ Music.

Mindfulness:5-4-3-2-1 - Identify
5 things you can see - (describe them)
4 things you can touch - (give details are they warm, cold, soft, textured)
3 things you can hear - (listen carefully. Are they far/lose, loud/quiet, consistent/changing?)
2 things you can smell - (close your eyes and tune into your senses)
1 thing you can taste - (it could be something you ate, or want to eat or a memory)

Create a Finger Labyrinth This is a free printable of a finger labyrinth. Use when you need to take a moment away to become present. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/337136722112613090/ 

Every little Cell - Karl Anthony (Music)  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_95QiVJN-U 

Books & Videos - 

What does it mean to be Present - by Rana DiOrio 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5PBevEfpQQ

A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles by Thich Nahat Hanh
goodreads.com/a-handful-of-quiet 

Have a wonderful week of practicing presence and self awareness! 

Photo credit to Colin Maynard - Unsplash 
Additional content gratitude to: Adrienne Cherry, Shiya Stone, Janell Shiers