More Feathers

Late afternoon last Friday, I placed my yoga mat under a maple tree in the far corner of the yard.  I had never set up over there, but on this day, it was the only spot that felt private.  Although it had been warm out earlier, by the time I sat down it had cooled off significantly and I considered moving indoors.  However, with the long range forecast calling for rain and lower temperatures, I realized that it could be quite some time 'til I could practise outdoors again so I grabbed a blanket, and began.  Within moments I noticed a small, white feather drifting down, eventually coming to rest on the grass nearby.  Soon after, a second white feather appeared, undulating - dancing softly in the breeze, like a scene out of Forrest Gump.  After crossing directly in front of me, it continued on at eye level, passing under the branches and eventually travelling beyond my field of vision.  It had been many months, possibly even a year, since I had last seen this special sign, and I smiled at the loving message from spirit.  Earlier in the week, I had asked Michael to please show me a physical sign of his presence, to remind me that his essence was still close, and now, here it was.  As my poses flowed from one to another, I repeatedly heard the message: remember to keep your perspective broad and open, rather than narrow and closed - you will feel lighter and more content.  I interpreted this to be a reference to living with his passing, but of course, it applies to everything in life.  So richly rewarded for my decision to remain outdoors.

The Power of a Smile

Hanging on by a thread.  An expression that kept drifting through my mind this past day and a half.  Then, while walking in the drizzle along the trail with my young companion this morning, it hit me.  The idea that smiling, even when one is not feeling particularly happy, can actually reset one's sense of well-being.  So, I smiled.  Really hard.  That segued into asking spirit for help with feeling more content.  Instantly noticing the space around my heart opening up.   That flowed into creating a mental gratitude list.  Focusing on all the fabulous aspects of my life rather than directing attention to that which is gone.   As a result, experiencing an amazing shift in attitude.  Feeling much lighter.  Much better.  All from the power of a smile.