See The Beauty

Today, during a little meditation
(because I was too tired to get sweaty),
these words just grabbed hold of my heart:

Today, see the beauty.

What we see in every day

is seen by choice.

We can see the ugly and the hate

and the bitterness and the lies.

We can see the chaos and the vile

and the sorrow and the pain.

Or we can see the simple beauty

in the jasmine and its aroma;

mama bird checking on baby bird;

fresh veggies in the garden;

an older couple walking hand in hand;

toddlers splashing in puddles;

singing along to your favorite tune;

laughter in its heartiest form;

rainbows after a storm;

the chatter of a wooded stroll;

the soothing sounds of a sandy seat;

children on the playground;

a kind and selfless deed;

a put-you-back-together hug;

the comfort of silence;

the feeling of positive production

and purpose;

the simple solitude of 

getting lost in the Word;

raindrops;

tail wags.

So very many things.

Choose wisely.

Marvelous Mash

Took a plethora of snippets
and stuck 'em together ...
just for YOU!

Your soul is made

of wild and

magical things.

Be present,

find joy,

be kind.

You give life

to what you

give energy to.

I am responsible

for the energy

I put out

into the world.

I am also responsible

for the energy

I allow

in mine.

I hope this helps you

through your day!

Consider it a verbal hug from me.

POR

Just a simple change of vista
makes all the difference.

The pessimist complains about the wind;

the optimist expects it to change;

the realist adjusts the sails.

The pessimist see a glass half empty;

the optimist sees a glass half full;

the realist is happy to have a glass.

The pessimist trudges to work;

the optimist hopes for a better job;

the realist is happy to pay the bills.

We see the world and our surroundings

as we choose to see them.

We are shaped by our past,

driven by our dreams,

and hanging on to our hopes.

We are not defined by our mistakes,

remembered for our accolades,

just making a difference when we are able.

The view is up to you.

Bloom

Lots of bloom quotes
popping up (see what I did there?).
So I figured I'd mash 'em up,

Lynify them,
and share ...

You will bloom

if you take the time

to water yourself.

Bloom beautifully.

Bloom dangerously,

loudly, or softly.

Bloom vibrantly

or simply.

There is a unique

and stunning gift within you.

However you need ...

just bloom.

Short and Sweet

Good Monday morning to ya!
Hope this day finds you well and wonderful.
Today's snippet is short and sweet,
but very powerful and purposeful.

Think on this for a hot minute ...

Let the beauty

of what you love

be what you do.

Have yourselves

an extraordinary day.

Competition

I know I don't normally post on Sundays,
but I think I was pretty askew this week
and so I'm trying to make amends.

I found this and love it.

It had no one to credit. 

That is really a shame.

This is as it should be ...

for all of us.

You can't compete

with me.

I want you to win, too.

Hide Within The Light

Hide Within The Light
by Lyn Marinello

When the chaos of the world
And the weight of big decisions
Lays heavy on your heart
Or feels like salt within incisions
When the voices in your ear
Are a constant, droning screaming
And the worries of the day
Disrupt you as you're dreaming
When the box upon the wall
Or the screen within your hand
Spew constant contradictions
Of things you do not understand
When the anger of your neighbors
And the anguish of your friends
Seem to have no boundaries
Just discontentment without ends
When the tragedies of life
Seem to grip your very core
And you're absolutely certain
You can't handle one thing more
That's the precise moment
From down upon your knees
That you ask the Lord for guidance
And know He'll hear your pleas
Thank Him for your blessings
And for victories already won
Ask Him for forgiveness
For the wrongs that you have done
Seek solace 'neath the wings
Of the Angels by His side
Immerse yourself within His word
In His commandments do abide
And once you've prayed for providence
From all this earthly plight
Feel confident to face your fears
And hide within the light.

Magic

From one Abraham Hicks ...

It is a magical thing.

The Universe

(or whatever you like to call Him)

has a way to yield

whatever you are wanting

through ways

you cannot imagine.

I am so grateful

for this magic ...

A win with Ruskin this morning

One John Ruskin is apparently
credited with this quip.
Enjoy! It's good stuff ...

A little thought

and a little kindness

are often worth more

than a great deal of money.

No pain ...

Najwa had it right ...

Never wish them pain.

That's not who you are.

If they caused you pain,

they must have pain inside.

Wish them healing.

That's what they need.

Absolutely!

Sending this to a vast array of folks
who may need to actually
read this, know this, absorb this.

And if today,

all you did was

hold yourself together,

I'm proud of you.

You are stronger than you know,

braver than you think,

more powerful than you understand,

more beautiful than words can say,

and more loved and supported

than you will ever comprehend.

A Fabulous Friday Find

Enjoy this little snippet
that I happily stumbled upon.

Not sure who to credit,

but ... goodness ... thank you.

Be surprised by joy.

Astonished by the night sky.

Delighted by the bird songs.

Softened by the moon's gaze,

and forever guided and held

by your soul's embrace.

RE

Adding a little to a fantastic treat that I found.

Re-set

Re-adjust

Re-configure

Re-focus

Re-lax

Re-treat

Re-strain

Re-consider

Re-work

Re-plan

Re-start

As many times

as you need to.

Crying

Love this quote by Charlotte Bronte:

Crying does not indicate

that you are weak.

Since birth,

it has always been

a sign that you are alive.

Yaaaaaasssss!!!!

Untangle

Have not been sleeping well.

There are words, but they are not clear.
When they do come,
they don't really fit with the last batch.
I do not question what I'm given.
I just wait til it all comes together.

Sometimes,
it is several works at once
and I get to untangle them.

Such is the same with life.

Stop reacting.

Listen, watch, absorb, 

and then ...

more often than not ...

you find your answer

without ever really looking.

To Know

From one Pema Chodron:

Nothing ever goes away

until it teaches us

what we need

to know.

Good stuff for a Monday ...

Ch-Angels MM, SE and KC

To laugh so hard your sides hurt;
to chat as freely as the birds chirp;
to comfortably sit quietly together;
to work in complimentary tandem;
to assist each other without judgement;
to be able to call you friend ...


that is a gift.
I treasure you.


Thanks MM, SE and KC

Remember

Some Nanea Hoffman for you
on this Friday morning ~

and yes, of course, I made it my own:

If today gets difficult,

remember the smell of coffee,

the way sunlight

filters through the clouds,

the sound of

your favorite person's laughter,

the feeling when

a song you love comes on,

the beauty of another sunrise,

the joy of a timeless memory,

the color of the sky at dusk,

the knowledge that you're loved,

and that we are all here

to take care of each other.

Beware

A Lynified version of good stuff ...

Beware

of destination addiction:

the idea that happiness

is in the next place,

in a new job,

with a new person,

in some random region,

around a certain thing.

Until you release the notion

that happiness lies somewhere else,

you will not find it;

for it will always be

right where you are.

Attention

There is, as of late, quite a few folks
that could benefit from this.
I sure hope you see it.

If you

don't like something,

just take away

its only power ...

your attention.

Walking Each Other Home

Walking Each Other Home
by Lyn Marinello

We are born into an unknown world, placed in outstretched arms
Showered in love and attention; protected from all and any harms
Taught to speak in kindness; to walk tall in faith and pride
In God's commandments and the Golden Rule eternally abide
In teenage years we might rebel and push the envelope we're in
Dye and pierce and smoke and drink; to parental-fatigued chagrin
We seem certain to known everything, til one day we find we don't
Those 'friends' we thought would have our back, simply can't or simply won't
And we once again find comfort in that envelope we left
We are unconditionally welcomed back, defeated and a bit bereft
College and adulthood open avenues unknown
One foot based, one set to bolt; we are stepping out on our own
Yet there's safety in the holidays, surrounded by familiarity
Re-grounding, reconnecting in sweet comfortability
As we age we find our way; unique to every single soul
Surround ourselves with good support; those folks who truly make us whole
Our blanket of security is tattered through the years
Patched by those around us as they comfort us through our tears
There are jobs and opportunities; sights to see, trails unexplored
Losses to be overcome and faith to be restored
Sometimes the road gets bumpy, life's potholes take a toll
We retreat to those we know and trust as they step up in their role
We wander through our highlights; stroll down memory lane
Realizing those connections are sometimes all that kept us sane
Take care of those around you; compliment, uplift
Your days on earth - unnumbered; every second is a gift
As the dinner bell rings on life; feast with loved ones at your table
Serve hope and faith to all who dine whenever you are able
And afterwards, enjoy dessert; and the company of those at hand
Savor the richness of both those things and try to understand
That the sun will set for each of us, no matter where we roam
We are our brother's keepers and we're just walking each other home.

Joy

Saw this.
Love this.
Sharing this.

Of course ... is has been Lynified ...

No matter what,

hang on to the part of you

that gasps at a beautiful sunset,

gets super excited about a new notebook,

a freshly baked cupcake,

an unexpected compliment,

a freshly cut lawn,

a quiet wood,

a desolate beach,

or a puppy on the street.

Allow yourself

to be regularly

startled, humbled, and in awe

of pure joy.

Inova

My MIL would have been 99 years old yesterday!
She was a gentle force, an unfiltered sage, a beautiful soul.
This was written for her service and never shared.
Happy Belated Birthday and Mom, I hope you'll enjoy Easter as well.
Today, in honor, I'm sharing ...


A Long and Winding Road
In Honor of Inova Marinello by Lyn Marinello

It's been a long and winding road with many a twist and turn.
You took every step undaunted; each opportunity to learn.
You stood firm within your faith. Family always at your core
Herculean strength ~ perhaps the model for that lore.
You traveled many places; taken paths no one would dare.
Coiffed, bejeweled, dressed to the nines. Met all your troubles with Inova flare.
You met challenges head on. Faced fears and loss and pain.
You'd occasionally crack and shed a tear or say something quite profane.
Steadfast in your beliefs, a heart so loving and so kind.
Always willing to lend an ear and also to speak your mind.
Hand in hand with Sal, you were never more content.
Surrounded by your offspring is the place that you were meant.
Greater joy could not be found than the gleam within your eyes
than when spending time with family and its ever-growing size.
You created countless memories with the many souls you reached.
Improved the lives of every one with the fortitude you have preached.
It's been a long and winding road. Beyond the trials, you've been blessed.
Enjoy Christmas at the throne of God, put your feet up, Mom, and finally rest.

The Old Rugged Cross

This ...

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross
The emblem of suffering and shame
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain

So I'll cherish the old rugged cross (rugged cross)
Till my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true
It's shame and reproach gladly bear
Then he'll call me some day to my home far away
Where his glory forever I'll share

And I'll cherish the old rugged cross (rugged cross)
Till my trophies at last I lay down
And I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown
I will cling to the old rugged cross
And exchange it some day for a crown

A little Mother on this Thursday

Mother Teresa said ...

Spread love

wherever you go.

and here's the important part ...

Let no one ever

come to you

without leaving

happier.

Wildflowers

From one Jak Major ...
this:

Gather courage

like wildflowers ~

Make a bouquet

like nobody's business.

Right back on the floor mat ...

Saw this quote
and was instantly transported
back to my gymnastics days.

This is good stuff ...

just for life in general!

Practice

like you've never won.

Perform

like you've never lost.

Powerlifting

So, over the weekend,
this literally woke me up
from a sound sleep.
Normally,

if it's a poem,

it just flows smoothly,

but this was just this.

And so ... I listened

and am sharing.

In power lifting

one of the most difficult efforts

is to lift

one's chin,

one's spirits,

one's hopes.

It is equally as difficult

to do so for others.

But, we are each much stronger

than we imagine we might be.

It is in this one single purpose

that we can change the world.

Lynification

Took a little thing
and made it my own.

Hope it adds to your day ...

People

generally see

what they look for,

and hear

what they listen for.

Look for the good.

Look for the positive.

Look for hope.

Look for love.

Listen for learning.

Listen for peacefulness.

Listen for laughter.

Listen for love.

Respect ... some Friday fun

Just a little something
that woke me up.

Enjoy ...

Respect
by Lyn Marinello

There is a great and older song
R.E.S.P.E.C.T.
Give me just a minute
I'll tell ya what it means to me
It's a process of existence
Best explained as a two-way street
No priority in direction
Or the height of the driver's seat
The difference does not exist
Between the tesla and the aged jalopy
The white lettered, red octagon
Is the only thing that'll stop me
I'll not fall victim to sporadic rage
Or by verbal shrapnel ever be harmed
I'll maintain my speed and space
I refuse to be overtly alarmed
Whether hit with a glancing blow
Or threatened with a blowing glance
I may occasionally be deterred
But I refuse to change my stance
This road does not belong to you
Vanity plates don't afford right of way
We are of equal import
Drive safe and have a lovely day

THIS!

Again,
no one to credit,
but this should be up

in every school, every where!

It should be preached

and learned

by every human.

Are you ready?

Admire

someone else's beauty

without

questioning your own.

Bridges

I have always adored this quote.
Not sure who said it, but ...
enjoy ...

One of the hardest things

in life

is to know

which bridge to cross

and which to burn.

Have an awesome day.

Life Lesson #1258603

Oh,
if only this was to reach
allllll the right people.

You are

ALWAYS

responsible

for how you act,

no matter

how you feel.

Far too many reactions;

far too few responses.

Getting Wilde on a Monday

Oscar is quoted as saying:

To love oneself

is the beginning

of a

life-long romance.

What if ...

What if ...
it turns out

way better

than you

have ever imagined ...

What if ...

Pilot

Don't fret.
I will not force you
to read another one

of my poems today.

Don't have a name to credit,

but it seemed to strike a chord.

And ... of course ...

I Lynified it!

The bad news is ...

    time flies.

The good news is ...

    you're the pilot.

The best news is ...

    you're actually the co-pilot!

Have a fabulous Friday!

Worth

For my friend,
who needs a little lifting up today.
If it helps someone else,

...

bliss bomb!


Worth
by Lyn Marinello

Scars and spots and wrinkles and grays
Are nothing more than a sign of the life in my days
The storms I have weathered and battles I've fought
These badges of honor bare what I've been taught
My beauty may have been outwardly altered
But I'm better for rising each time I have faltered
The lessons I've learned from each scab I've received
Bolsters my worth on which I've desperately cleaved
My skin may have sagged, my curves have evolved
Though my self-doubt has suffered, my soul's been absolved
My core has developed Herculean intent
Broadening horizons, life sans lament
Know that the mirror holds only reflection
See something of value and not of rejection
Time molds the body, but life holds the grit
Your worth can be found in what you permit

Let me know whatcha think.

And ... for my friend ... I love you.

Good Samaritan

Today is Good Samaritan Day.

This one is a little older,
and a little lengthy,
but seems to fit the day.
I hope you enjoy.
Would love to hear your thoughts.

Passing Through
by Lyn Marinello

Out for a walk, I found myself, at a large park near my home.
A little old man, alone on a bench, caught my eye whilst I did roam.
I watched him from a distance. He'd occasionally smile or laugh out loud.
I felt a little sorry that he might be lost in a dementia cloud.
Before I knew where I was headed, I stood in front of his wooden seat.
"I've seen you here before," I said. "I thought we'd finally meet."
His cloudy eyes of blue looked up. A wrinkled hand patted weathered slats.
"Have a seat. I've seen you, too." And so began a most extraordinary chat.
"It's a beautiful day outside today." I spoke in a stiff, uncomfortable voice.
"Sure is!" he said quite gleefully. "So glad you're out! What a wonderful choice!"
I smiled at his positivity; asked him how he was doing today.
"I'm enjoying the sun and watching the birds. And how are you, if I may?"
Taken aback by his interest, the shock must have shown on my face.
He gently touched my arm and said, "My apologies if I was out of place."
I couldn't help but answer, "Not at all, but why would you ask?"
"We're sharing a seat and a moment. If I can help, I'm up to the task."
Any bit of apprehension simply lifted its weighted veil.
"I can't find work, my marriage is stressed, life just seems kind of stale."
He stared off into the woods. I thought perhaps he did not hear.
But after a bit, he turned and spoke in words quite eloquent and clear.
"Sir, work will come, I'm certain. Perhaps, expand your view.
And if you've got a marriage, you are blessed in all you do.
You see you have a purpose; someone you love, and provide for too.
Life is whatever you make it. It's all in your point of view.
Things aren't stale, as you stated. When's the last time you went on a date?
Enjoyed the world around you? It's really never too late."
And with a deep breath, he turned again, finding joy in a flitting bee.
And it was like a new awakening as his words washed over me.
"Are you married?" I inquired. "I was," was his reply.
"I'm sorry," I said with true remorse. He smiled and asked me why.
"My wife of nearly 60 years filled my heart and life with glee
I don't dwell on her passing, but rather the life she shared with me.
She gave me several children. We shared many a laugh and tear.
I held her hand. She held my heart. She knew the man beneath the veneer."
In disbelief I listened. Such profundity so close.
I found myself transfixed. I was totally engrossed.
"I worked a couple lengthy jobs. Some time off with due concern,
But every door I entered held a lesson for me to learn.
Believe me when I tell you, son, life's a bumpy, ragged road.
It's not about the vessel you take, but who helps you carry the load."
For a moment we sat in silence. His gaze focused on skittish squirrels.
Before I could ask the question, he spoke, "Two fine boys. Two beautiful girls."
I asked how old they were. He smiled, "All married with kids of their own.
Even got a couple of grandkids - the gems of seeds that I have sown.
And how 'bout you, a sturdy lad, have you any offspring yet?"
"My wife's expecting, a boy and a girl, twins." "Fantastic! A matching set!"
Floored by his response, I gently reminded this man.
"I just told you, I'm unemployed." He smiled, "Life doesn't always go as planned."
"How will I provide? How will I make ends meet?"
"Sometimes," he said, "you work best on your knees, not on your feet.
You've got to have faith in yourself. You seem smart and able and apt.
When faced with tribulations, you've got to overcome, adapt."
He laughed at a passing puppy quite tangled up in his lead,
And the antics of the owner as he tried to get him freed.
"Life," he resumed, "will find a way. That's a dinosaur movie line."
"Didn't turn out well for the dinosaur." "Nor the man that fiddled with God's design."
Although I was completely sarcastic, his words cut right to my very core
He noticed my pain and spoke again, "Your attitude is everything. Amend it, I implore.
Take count of all of your blessings; numerous, I bet. Have you tried?
Life's not defined by a bank account. Wealth's measured by those at your side."
The weight of his words nearly crushed me. And yet, somehow, I felt enlightened.
A few simple words from a little old man and every one of my senses seemed heightened.
I turned to him, eyes glistening. "I'm not sure how to properly thank you."
"You already have, my dear young man. Isn't the sky an amazing blue?"
And I leaned back and took a long look at a beautifully clear azure sky.
At puffy white clouds and chipmunks at play and the clasped hands of those walking by.
The chirping of my cell phone brought the moment to a bittersweet end.
I excused myself and answered and could barely comprehend.
I thought it might be my wife, but it was from a job to which I'd applied.
A better offer than what I'd hoped; vacation and benefits supplied.
Overwhelmed, I shared my joyous news. He simply grinned and said, "You see?
A change of view changes so much more. I'm so glad you ran into me."
Humbled by his kindness. Inspired by his wit and grace.
"I'm just a few moment's walk from here. Would you like to come back to my place?
My wife would love to meet you. I've got to share this news."
"You go ahead, enjoy the day. I've got to shuffle these old shoes."
"I'd love to come and meet again; enjoy another chat with you."
"Young sir, my work is done right here. I'm simply passing through.
But sometime in the future, you may meet a beaten, battered soul.
Return your thoughts to this old bench; take your turn and make him whole."

Language

I have posted this prior
but it is ALWAYS
worth re-sharing.

Kindness

is the language

the deaf can hear

and the blind can see.

~ Mark Twain

Good Tenant

From an unknown author ...
a beautiful message:

Do not let anyone

rent space

in your head

unless they are

a good tenant.

What you allow,

takes root.

Leadership

Having held a plethora of
leadership roles,
and having a few favorite supervisors,

I'd have to say that THIS

is my favorite behavior

and what I strive to be.

So much more gets done,

and done happily!

The first responsibility

of a leader

is to define reality.

The last

is to say "Thank You."

In between,

the leader is a servant.

Goes right along with my

"lead from behind" theory.

Give a directive,

help when necessary,

and cheer the whole while.

Enjoy your Sunday

and the week ahead.

To Us

Today is International Women's Day!
Some days I feel like a very strong woman.

Other days I weep

at Publix commercials or a favorite song.

What I'm learning is that the weeping is not weakness.

It is heart. It is compassion.

It is the overwhelming presence of who and what I am.

I am also learning

to surround myself with strong women.

None of us are perfect.

We all have our positives ...

but what makes us extraordinary

is that we can buoy one another through the negatives.

That's what we're made for.

We are much stronger, more resilient,

and more persuasive as

a united, collective, connected unit.

An army of uniqueness

is a brave and beautiful thing.

Ladies ... I stand in awe

of your amazing abilities, strength

and fortitude.

I am grateful for your shared energy,

your unwavering support, your kindness,

your friendship, and your love.

Have yourselves whatever kind of day

you're searching for.

Silence

Without anyone to credit for this,
I am sharing ~
for those that are fighting
a never-ending battle.

For those that must accept

an apology that will never be given,

and confidently move on any way.

Silence

is the best answer

to someone

who doesn't value

your words.

Be The One

From one Marcia Ashton,
I am completely stealing and sharing this.

Be the one

who nurtures and builds.

Be the one

who has an understanding

and forgiving heart.

Be the one

who looks for the best

in people.

Most of all ...

be the one

who leaves people better

than you found them.

This is my goal

each and every day.

The Yin and Yang

Written inspired and with compassion
for a few very special people ...

(would love to hear whatcha think?)


The Yin and Yang
by Lyn Marinello

Resilient; but exhausted
Fierce, and yet indifferent
Remarkably intelligent
Occasionally incoherent
Positive; yet circumspect
Vivacious though nearly broken
Incredibly loquacious
Although rarely outspoken
Faithful; yet fearful
Reckless, but prudent
Seeking validation
Acceptingly adjuvant
Peaceful; though irate
Energized and yet serene
Slow and steady footsteps
Intermittently careen
Patterns are disrupted
Straight lines intersected
Careful preparation
Does not include the unexpected
Solitary amid the masses
Confined although free-range
Concerned with the correctness
Of the most mundane exchange
Hopeful; yet mired in doubt
Bitter; but trying to smile
Pushing positively forward
Constantly in denial
Searching ~ for what's within
In the quiet; a clamorous harangue
The good and bad; the black and white
The dance of the Yin and Yang.

Flow

Without anyone to credit,
I'll simply share.
Short and sweet and spectacular!

The secret

to happiness

is flowing,

not forcing.

Happy Monday, y'all!

Have a magnificent week.

Good Stuff

Thought this might be appropriate
for some folks I know
who are fighting

a few internal demons
right now.

Maybe there's others, too,

that need to read it also.

It's not

who you are

that

holds you back.

It's who

you think

you're not.

Now, go give that another read.

That's good stuff.

Today

Today
only happens
once.

Get out there

and carpe the heck

out of this diem.

You can either be

your biggest critic

or 

your biggest cheerleader.

The world

has enough critics.

Go get those pompoms!

A Beautiful View

If we all looked at each day
in this manner ...

Life is a series

of thousands

of tiny miracles.

Notice them.

What you choose to see ...

you live.

Emerson Good Words

RWE penned:

What lies behind us

and what lies before us

are small matters

compared to

what lies within us.

Light

Today,
and every day ...

the light

in me,

honors

the light

in you.

Shine on

so others might see

the light

that they are missing.

First Things First

The first thought
of any day

should be ...

Thank You!

Make it magic.

Storms

A little Dolly Parton for ya
this lovely Sunday morning ...

Storms

make trees

take

deeper roots.

The same is true for you.

Obstacles

Took a Jane Lee Logan quip
and Lynified it!

I do hope you enjoy

and that it might mean something

to you or someone you know.

Sometimes,

what looks like

an obstacle in your path

is actually a gift

meant to

point your shoes

in another direction,

or to

provide you strength

and strategy

to move beyond it.

Embrace your obstacles.

Life Lesson #258618202

This!

Be teachable.

You are not

always right.

Booyah!!!

A brief word

From one Anita Krizzan ...
this!

You don't have

to move mountains.

Simply fall in love

with life.

Be a tornado of happiness,

gratitude and acceptance.

You will change the world

just by being

a warm, kind-hearted

human being.

You're welcome.

Have a great day!

Destined

With an unknown author,
I have no one to credit for this.

It certainly, however,

needs to be read and re-read

and read just a few more times.

You may not end up

where you thought

you were going,

but ...

you will always end up

where you were

meant to be.

The journey may be bumpy.

The path may be obstructed.

There are twists and turns,

tunnels and tightropes,

but you are destined

for greatness, friend.

At the Hem

So ... I kinda feel sometimes like John Coffey from The Green Mile.
Not only do I feel for those people around me.
Sometimes, I feel like I actually ingest their pain.
In the past few months,
I've seen the loss of a parent, the struggle with the loss of a sibling,
the loss of not one, but two, babies, the loss of an only adult son,
the pain of betrayal, indifference, and feeling insignificant.
And so ... these words came out.
It is written in the first person ~
but meant for absolutely every single one of us.


At the Hem
by Lyn Marinello

I am an open book
    penned in invisible ink
Incredibly pensive
    with thoughts unworthy to think
I've battled foes
    unseen by the masses
Sprinting through life
    as I trudge in molasses
I see little I like
    in my mirrored reflection
Rise from the ashes
    to greet new dejection
I dance to life's cha-cha
    on sore, calloused feet
Feast on hope never ending
    that tastes so bittersweet
There's a pain in betrayal
    the soul can't correct
An ache indescribable
    from complete disrespect
As a tired head raises
    adrift in a hurt filled haze
I can almost see clearly
    the error of my ways
I have searched for the answers
    in the person adjacent
Thought "little" wrongs don't count
    I became completely complacent
I bartered and bargained,
    plead for forgiveness, redemption
Thought that maybe some status
    provides a safety, exemption
I've learned salvation exists
    as I see when I probe
Not in material, money or man
    but at the hem of His robe

RAK

Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day!

In that spirit,
I thought it might be appropriate

to share Mr. Vincent Van Gogh's quote.

Great things

are done

by a series

of small things

brought together.

Enjoy your day

and RAK 'em up.

Helloooooooooo!

I'm baaaaack!

Here's hoping

that y'all didn't miss me too much!

Know that

although I couldn't start your mornings

with my positivity,

mine were started

with baby smiles, giggles,

rocket ships, kids songs, 

counting, letters, learning,

hugging, singing, laughing,

and loving.

And in that bliss,

I will be better able

to share more positivity

with you.

Have a beautiful Friday

and a fabulous weekend.

Much love.

Many thanks!

Gratitude

A mish mash of two tasty tidbits for ya.
One is from Erica Layne. The other is uncredited.
Seems like they were meant for each other.

If you begin 

and finish your days

with thoughts of gratitude,

you'll find yourself living

from a place of abundance

rather than lack.

Be so happy

that when others

look at you,

they become happy, too.

The first and final moments

set the tone

for the many minutes

that fall in between.

How old are you?

This popped into my feed
and it is simply magnificent.

Don't believe there is a credit to share,

and, of course, I Lynified it, so ...

just read it, absorb it, and ...

how old are you?

Age is irrelevant.

Ask me

how many trips I've taken,

sunrises and sunsets I've seen,

laughs I've shared,

concerts I've been to,

wooded paths I've taken,

beaches I've sat on,

hugs I've participated in,

bedtime stories I've read,

and people I've loved.

That is how old I am.

Hiking

By an unknown author.
I wish it was me.
But this is fantastic!

Hiking is a bit like life:

The journey only requires you

to put one foot in front of the other

...

again and again and again.

And,

if you allow yourself opportunity

to be present

throughout the entirety

of the trek,

you will witness beauty

every step of the way,

not just at the summit.

Pay Attention

Although we don't always pay attention,
and plow ahead anyway,

this quote (without credit) 

holds tremendous value and worth.

We need only be observant ...

Be thankful

for closed doors,

detours and roadblocks.

They protect you

from people, paths and places

not meant for you.

Imagine

Imagine,

if you will,

living in a space

that contains only things

that spark joy

that bring peace

that create happiness.

Would that not be

the closest to perfection

we could find here?

That is what I find

when with my children.

Looking forward

to that perfection soon

and celebrating 

someone's birthday.

Enjoy the day before you, people.

Don't imagine it.

Make it happen.

(I must admit that I took

snippets from another

and built upon it to create this.

Thank you M. Kondo.)

Beautiful

This word was all over my morning.

Must mean I've supposed to share.

It is a 

beautiful day

to have a

beautiful day.

Remember why you're here.

Remember who you are.

Remember you are loved.

Remember you are important.

Remember you are worthy.

Have a beautiful day.

Let go

This is apparently a Buddha quote:

In the end, only three things matter:

how much you loved,

how gently you lived,

and

how gracefully you let go

of things not meant for you.

I am all about the love!

I am all about being gentle!

What hit me this morning

was the last one.

And it's such a great life-lesson.

Let go of things not meant for you.

You cannot carry baggage that is not your own.

You cannot fix every problem.

You cannot change anger issues of others.

You cannot alter ego issues of others.

You can do you.

You can love and be kind.

What others do is their business.

Love and be kind anyway.

How others behave is their business.

Love and be kind anyway.

You are in charge of you.

Let go of things not meant for you.

Nothing

I, of course,
Lynnified this quote,
but it did not come with an author,
so I took a little liberty.

Of course, it still holds true.

Nothing

is more dangerous

than a human

who is focused

and unimpressed.

Have yourselves

a fabulous Friday.

Adventure

There is no one to credit for this,
but I found this quote
and boy did it hit home.

Perhaps it will resonate

with someone else out there, too.

Sometimes,

you just need an adventure

to cleanse the bitter taste

of life from your soul.

Make today a day

that stirs your very core.

Happy February!

Today ... and every day

Today ...
and every day ...

Be the reason

someone believes

in the goodness

of people.

Practice

It takes practice
to tune out
the loud opinions
around you
and tune in
to the quiet beating
of your own heart.

~ Erica Lane

Erica's got that right!

In the stillness

of one's soul

sleeps the essence

of one's purpose.

Gnaw

Loved this
and thought I'd share
to start your week off right.

Far too many people

are looking for

the right person,

instead of

trying to be

the right person.

Gnaw on that for a minute.

Cares

To know

that someone cares

is a precious gift.

To be

someone that cares

is a precious opportunity.

Grab either and both

at every opportunity.

Silence

Again ...
mashing up a few tidbits
that bombarded me this morning,
so I thought that I should share.

There is a strength

in silence.

There is a much to learn

when we observe

instead of just absorb.

In the stillness of a moment,

you will find your answer.

If you're feeling stressed ...

sssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

Perfect

It truly amazes me
how certain words or lines
will attack me.

And I know I am to share it,

when it is not once or twice,

but multiple times.

I really am learning to listen, God.

Thanks for being patient with me.

You don't have to be perfect

to be beautiful.

You are beautiful

because you're imperfect.

Have a wonderful day.

Fill it with blessings.

Simplify

Here's a few quips and quotes
that have been Lynified!

When everything

is moving and shifting,

the only way

to counteract chaos,

is with stillness.

Rest is not idle,

is not wasteful,

is not useless.

Sometimes,

we must dive to deeper waters

to find stillness;

and in that quiet peace

you are doing

the most productive activity

for body and soul.

Life is frittered away

by details.

Be quiet.

Find stillness.

Simplify.

Unplug

Almost everything
will work again,
and sometimes better,
if you unplug it
for a little bit ...
including you.

A little reminder

As you begin a new week,
I thought you might like
a gentle reminder

on a very important topic:

Of all of the places

that you can go,

the most wonderful

place to be is in

someone's thoughts,

someone's prayers,

and

someone's heart.

And if you're in one, any or all of those,

know how very blessed you are ...

as is the person who put you there.

Product

For myself
as much as anyone else ...

I am not

a product

of my circumstances.

I am

a product

of my decisions.

Make good choices.

Be good humans.

Pay attention

Today,
I will pay attention
to all

the little blessings,

the tiny bliss bombs,

the kind deeds,

the warm smiles,

the simple gestures,

the magic,

and the miracles.

They are 

everywhere,

if you

pay attention.

Waves

Saw this post,
among many others,
and thought

...

there are days when this is me ~

when I miss my Momma, my brother, 

my great niece, family and friends ~

and it touched my soul.

I thought I'd share to

... perhaps ...

touch another soul.

Missing you

comes in waves.

Today ...

I am drowning.

This is not a sad post.

It's much more than that.

It is acknowledgement.

It is acceptance.

It is processing.

It is ok.

I am ok.

You are ok.

Hmmm

If it scares you,
it might be
a good thing to try.

Something to ponder ...

Arty & Funky

Although this quote
is not directly related,
it surely made me think
of one of my favorite songs.

If you want

to heal your heart

and your soul,

start listening

to the silence.

I know some of you are singing.

And I am happy ...

Stopppit!

Without anyone to credit for this,
of course ...
I made it my own.

Stop

shrinking yourself

to fit

in places

you've outgrown

or were

never meant

to be in.

Gifted

I am humbled
and in awe

of the kindnesses

of those around me.

A simple gesture.

A kind word.

A sweet text.

A beautiful card.

A lovely phone call.

A strong safe hug.

A supportive post.

You all might not realize

how such simple things

can steady and raise

another human being,

but y'all are masters.

I am so gifted

with you beautiful souls.

Thank you.

SSLT

Looking forward to
putting my house back together this weekend.

It has sat empty from the de-Santafication

long enough.

But that is for later.

Today, ...

I have a mission for you

should you choose to accept it ...

SSLT

Share Some Love Today

You don't have to give away all your money,

just a kind word,

a good deed,

a helping hand,

an accepting smile,

a little love.

It does not take much

to make an immense difference

in the life of another human.

Today

Found this little treasure, and,
of course,
made it my own.

Hope it helps just one little soul ...

Today,

I embrace the memory of my past,

honor the lessons I have learned,

and feel grateful for all

that life has given me.

I acknowledge, for myself,

that I did the best I could at the time,

with the information and abilities

that I had.

I will set down baggage from my past

and only carry forward

the positives I have gleaned.

I will let go of the negatives

and the people and the weight

that no longer serve me.

I clear my future and road ahead

for lagniappes and miracles.

Sanctuary

There are safe spaces,

for certain,

but you need look

no further than

yourself.

Within you

is a stillness

and a sanctuary

to which 

you can retreat

at any time

to find

and be

your own

beautiful

self.

(I cannot lay claim

to this.

I found parts

and did my own thing

with them.

I hope it helps.)

Go Out

Advice from Mother Teresa:

Go out

in the world today

and love the people

you meet.

Let your presence

spark new light

in the hearts

of others.

If only ...

If every person got out of bed

and made this their mission ...

what a glorious world

it would be.

Let it begin with me ........

A little Ruiz on your Monday

From one Don Miguel ...

Be impeccable with your word.

Speak with integrity.

Say only what you mean.

Avoid using the word

to speak against yourself

or to gossip of others.

Use the power of your word

in the direction of truth and love.

Working on some (most) of this

for this new year.

Make this week magical.

This right here ...

A little mish mash of two separate quotes
that have been Lynified ...

Feel the feeling

but don't become the emotion.

The wound is the place

where the light gets in.

Witness the hurt.

Allow its process.

Release it.

It is no more.

The only power it has

is the power you allow it.

Strength

Strength of character
far outweighs the façade of perfection.

I would rather lift you up

and dust you off

than pretend to be in awe of your outfit.

I would prefer to listen

to your past adventures

than a list of your ho-hum accolades.

I would much rather laugh with you

over your own shortcomings,

than hear another self-appointed achievement.

I would rather you speak

of your own faults and frailties

than hear you boast again about accomplishments.

To be real;

to be relatable;

to accept yourself ~

with each and every single beautiful flaw ~

is a quality I am much more in awe of

than any wall of trophies or plaques.

I'd rather walk beside a real fighter,

than partake in the procession of plastic.

Powerless

You might think, by the title,
that this is a minimizing post.

But ...

I have tricked you ... as will these things,

if you allow them.

Do not get upset

with people

or situations;

both are powerless

without

your reaction.

You are in charge

of you.

Wednesday Words

Read.
Retain.
Repeat.

I am worthy

of all the good things

that life has to offer.

What about you?

Saw this

and it seemed terribly appropriate

for the moment.

None of us are immune,

but some could sure use some pointers.

The soul

has no secret

that the behavior

does not reveal.

I am a constant work in progress.

I am sculpted together

from marble and duct tape.

What about you?

Sixty Lovely Seconds

My cover pic on Facebook is a quote from Rilke:

And now

we welcome the new year.

Full of things

that have never been.

Let that sink in for a moment.

Create your year ...

sixty lovely seconds at a time.