Tag: inspiration

Posted in Clean and Organize

The Healing Power of Decluttering

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

The Healing Power of Decluttering: How a Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Space and Mind

Life has a way of piling up, and not just on our to-do lists. Slowly, without even noticing, our homes and offices start to fill with things—possessions, papers, even well-meaning gifts—that eventually become clutter. But this clutter isn’t just physical; it seeps into our minds, creating a kind of noise that disrupts our peace, our productivity, and even our health.

For many, a cluttered space is a reflection of a cluttered mind. It’s hard to concentrate, to relax, or even to feel truly at home when surrounded by chaos. You may find yourself overwhelmed, anxious, or even depressed as your space spirals out of control. This is where the magic of a professional organizer comes in—not just as someone who tidies up, but as a partner in reclaiming your life.

Clutter and Mental Health: The Hidden Connection

Imagine walking into a room that feels light, open, and calm—a place where everything has a home and nothing is out of place. Now, imagine the opposite: a space where every surface is covered, every drawer is crammed, and every corner holds a reminder of something you haven’t gotten to yet. That second scenario can weigh on you, both mentally and physically. Studies show that clutter can increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to feelings of overwhelm and helplessness. It can rob you of your focus, steal your energy, and even disrupt your sleep.

But it’s not just about the physical mess. Each piece of clutter often carries its own emotional baggage—unmade decisions, unfulfilled promises, and unresolved issues. And that emotional weight can be heavy.

How a Professional Organizer Can Help

When you invite a professional organizer into your space, you’re not just asking for help with cleaning up—you’re inviting transformation. A good organizer understands that decluttering is deeply personal. They approach each space with empathy, knowing that every item has a story, every decision a ripple effect.

Here’s how the process can impact your mental and physical health:

  1. Restoring Order, Reducing Stress: By systematically decluttering and organizing, a professional helps you reclaim your space and, with it, your peace of mind. As your environment becomes more orderly, your mind can follow suit. The weight on your shoulders lightens as your stress levels decrease.
  2. Empowering Decisions: Every item you decide to keep, donate, or discard is a step toward empowerment. You’re taking control, making decisions that reflect your current self and your goals. This act of choosing can be incredibly freeing, reducing anxiety and boosting your self-esteem.
  3. Creating Calm: A decluttered space creates an environment where you can relax and recharge. It becomes a sanctuary, a place where you can breathe deeply, think clearly, and rest completely. Imagine the physical relief of walking into a room that feels calm and welcoming—your body responds to that in powerful ways.
  4. Boosting Productivity: In your office, a clear space leads to a clear mind. You’re able to focus better, work more efficiently, and make decisions more effectively. This boost in productivity isn’t just good for your career—it’s great for your mental health, too.
  5. Supporting Well-being: Beyond the immediate impact, the benefits of a decluttered space extend to your overall well-being. Better sleep, improved relationships, more time for self-care—these are just a few of the long-term rewards you might experience.

Your Journey to a Lighter, Healthier Life

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about making space for what truly matters. It’s about creating an environment that nurtures you and supports your mental and physical health.

As a professional organizer, I’m here to guide you on that journey. Together, we can transform your cluttered space into a place of peace, productivity, and well-being. Because when you declutter your space, you declutter your life—and that’s where true healing begins.

Happy Decluttering!

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Mind Set

Creative Force

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Creating Completeness

When we affirm that we are fulfilled rather than deficient, we are asserting that contentment is a natural way of being.

The universe’s creative force is limitless, making every event, from the fate of a single molecule to the repercussions of a massive supernova, equally significant. Human potential is influenced by this power, but as sentient beings, we have the unique ability to decide whether to resist or align with it. When we direct our desires through focused meditation or seek guidance from spiritual entities, we tap into the universe’s creative potential to manifest specific outcomes. However, since the universe considers not just our words but also our actions, intentions, and energetic vibrations, the response we receive may sometimes be unexpected.

The discourse created through our appeals is a combination of verbal expression, mental thoughts, purposeful intentions, and subconscious contemplation. When making requests to the universe, our unspoken message unintentionally implies a lack of what we desire, and the universe perceives this as the truth. In contrast, when manifesting completeness through affirmations, we confidently declare our desires as if they have already been fulfilled, affirming their existence.

ALREADY VISIONING THAT YOU HAVE LIVED THAT LIFE YOU DREAM OF – THE SCENTS, THE SCENERY, THE SOUNDS.

When we embrace the notion of fulfillment rather than dwelling on shortcomings, we acknowledge that contentment is an integral and inherent aspect of human existence. Our nature is inherently fulfilled, as the universe conspires to gratify our needs and aspirations. By framing our realities in positive terms, we do not disregard the inherent challenges of life but rather approach them with a sense of optimism and resilience.

Rather than dwelling on what we lack or finding dissatisfaction, we prioritize directing our thoughts toward positive outcomes, recognizing that the energy we invest in our thoughts shapes the responses we receive. Contemplate how you would feel if your desires were fulfilled, immersing yourself in that emotional state and making it an integral part of your mindset.

To manifest your desires, craft a vivid mental image of satisfaction, so compelling that it feels undeniably real. Declare to the universe that this vision represents your truth. As you conclude your appeal, express heartfelt gratitude, for it is your acknowledgment of the actuality of your fulfillment that will activate the universe’s creative forces and bring your desires to fruition.

In harmonious synergy with the universe’s creative energy, YOU hold the power to manifest spiritual truths within your material reality. Embracing the beauty, peace, and inherent goodness already present in your life will refine your ability to perceive and comprehend their profound influence. To align your existence with your desires, release thoughts of emptiness, making space for the abundant energy of completeness to permeate your being, guiding you toward fulfillment and the realization of your dreams.

“There is never closure there is only completeness”

Happy Visioning! Cheryl

Posted in Family

Happy Labor Day Weekend

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Labor Day: A Celebration of Grit, Gratitude, and the Human Spirit

As summer gently fades into the golden embrace of autumn, Labor Day arrives as a cherished pause—a moment to reflect on the profound significance of work in our lives. For many, it’s a long weekend, a final hurrah before the crisp air of fall settles in. But beyond the barbecues, the parades, and the sales, Labor Day stands as a poignant reminder of the sweat, sacrifice, and spirit that have shaped the world we live in.

Labor Day is more than just a day off; it’s a tribute to the working men and women whose hands have built nations, whose dedication has powered industries, and whose resilience has weathered the storms of economic uncertainty. It’s a day to honor the spirit of those who have toiled in fields, factories, offices, and homes, often with little recognition, to provide for their families and contribute to the greater good of society.

The origins of Labor Day lie in the labor movement of the late 19th century, a time when workers were fighting for their rights, their dignity, and their lives. The laborers of that era endured grueling hours, dangerous conditions, and meager wages. Yet, they persisted. They organized, marched, and protested, demanding fair treatment and respect. Their courage and determination laid the groundwork for the labor laws and protections we often take for granted today.

But Labor Day is not just a historical marker; it is a living celebration of the human spirit. It is a reminder of the power of solidarity, of the importance of standing together in pursuit of a common goal. It calls us to remember that every job, no matter how big or small, contributes to the tapestry of our society. From the nurse who cares for patients through the night to the teacher who inspires young minds, from the housekeeper who keeps our spaces clean to the farmer who grows our food—each one plays a vital role in our collective well-being.

This day also serves as a moment of gratitude. Gratitude for those who came before us, paving the way for safer, more equitable workplaces. Gratitude for those who continue to work hard, often in challenging circumstances, to provide for their families and communities. And gratitude for the opportunities we all have to make a difference through our labor, whatever form that may take.

Labor Day is a celebration of resilience. It’s a day to acknowledge the challenges we face in our work lives, the sacrifices we make, and the strength we find within ourselves to keep going. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to create change, lift each other, and build a better future.

As we gather with family and friends this Labor Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this holiday. Let us honor the contributions of workers past and present, and let us recommit to the values of hard work, fairness, and community. And above all, let us celebrate the indomitable human spirit that drives us to strive, to overcome, and to achieve. For it is in our labor, in our collective efforts, that we find the strength to build a brighter tomorrow.

Here are ten family-friendly events and activities perfect for Labor Day weekend:

Outdoor Movie Night: Set up a projector in your backyard or head to a local park that’s hosting a community movie night. Bring blankets, and popcorn, and enjoy a film under the stars.

Family BBQ or Picnic: Gather the family for a BBQ or picnic at a nearby park or in your backyard. Include games like frisbee, cornhole, or a water balloon toss.

Visit a Local Fair or Festival: Many communities host fairs or festivals over Labor Day weekend, featuring rides, games, live music, and food stalls. Check for local events in your area.

Camping Trip: Whether it’s a full-blown camping trip in the wilderness or setting up a tent in your backyard, camping is a great way to bond with the family. Don’t forget the s’mores!

Beach Day: Spend the day at the beach building sandcastles, swimming, and playing beach volleyball. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water.

Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore local trails and parks by going on a family hike or nature walk. Bring along a guidebook or app to help identify local plants and wildlife.

Labor Day Parade: Attend a local Labor Day parade. These events often include floats, marching bands, and various community groups celebrating the holiday.

Outdoor Arts and Crafts Fair: Many towns host arts and crafts fairs over the long weekend. It’s a fun way to explore local artists’ work, and kids often enjoy making their crafts at these events.

Family Bike Ride: Find a scenic bike trail and take a family ride together. This is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

Visit a Museum or Zoo: Spend the day exploring a local museum, zoo, or aquarium. Many offer special activities or discounts for families over the holiday weekend.

Happy Labor Day, Cheryl

Posted in Clutter Coach

Mini Clutter-Clinics

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Ten minutes is a sweet spot!

Embrace the Power of Small Wins: 10 Mini Clutter Clinics in Just 10 Minutes Each!

In the hustle and bustle of life, finding the time and energy to tackle clutter can feel overwhelming. But what if I told you that you could make a significant impact on your space in just 10 minutes? Introducing my 10 Mini Clutter Clinics—a series of quick, focused sessions designed to bring order to your life without the stress. Each clinic is a bite-sized, manageable task that will guide you to declutter and organize different areas of your home or workspace.

Why 10 Minutes? Ten minutes is a sweet spot—it’s short enough to fit into your busiest day, yet long enough to make a noticeable difference. By breaking down the process into these mini-clinics, you’ll experience the joy of small victories that build momentum. Every completed clinic is a step closer to a more organized, peaceful environment.

What Can You Expect?

  • Immediate Impact: You’ll see the difference right away. Whether it’s clearing off a cluttered countertop or organizing a messy drawer, these clinics are designed to give you quick wins that boost your confidence and motivation.
  • Stress-Free Progress: No need to carve out hours of your day. Each clinic is purposefully designed to be completed in just 10 minutes, making it easy to integrate into your daily routine.
  • Empowerment: As you move through each clinic, you’ll feel empowered by your ability to create positive change in your environment. The sense of accomplishment will encourage you to continue your journey toward a clutter-free life.

The Journey Ahead Is Your Path to a more organized life starts here, one clinic at a time. Whether you’re clearing out the junk drawer that’s been bothering you for months or finally organizing that pile of paperwork, each mini-clinic will bring you closer to the peaceful, clutter-free space you deserve.

So, let’s get started! Commit just 10 minutes to your first clinic, and watch how these small, intentional actions can lead to big transformations. Remember, every step forward is a step toward a more serene, organized life. You’ve got this!

  1. Purse/Briefcase/Backpack

Dump the contents from your daily bag. Only add the items you use back in. Let go of the rest. If you choose a day each week this 10-minute task will be a way to change a habit and behavior.

  1. Bathroom

Let go of old cosmetics (see this for expiry guidelines), expired prescriptions, and OTC meds (here’s how to dispose of them). Take an assessment through each drawer and cabinet. Donate to a local homeless shelter if there are unopened items (toothpaste, shampoo, soap) or similar items that you know you will never use.

  1. Hall Closet or Storage Area

I’ve never seen the inside of your hall closet, but I can guarantee there are things in there you don’t need, don’t want, and don’t even remember you have or don’t know how they got there.

  1. Pantry

If there are other things you never use, let them go and make space. Donate unexpired, unopened items to your local food bank. Create a master list of what goes where on what shelf, create something to match the theme of your kitchen, drop it in a Dollar Store frame, and hang it so everyone knows how to keep the pantry tidy.

  1. Nightstand

Make the space near where you sleep peaceful and straightforward. Having a battery-operated clock next to the bed is nice in case of power outages. Have water, and a notebook with a pen/pencil to make those last-minute thoughts before dreamland. 

  1. Outdoor space

Tackle balconies, porches, front yards, and backyards. Even outside clutter is clutter. If your home is on the market or will be short, curb appeal makes that first impression.

  1. Car

From the glove box to the trunk, do a deep dig of your car. You’ll probably eliminate that annoying rattling noise or solve the mystery smell in the process too.

  1. Inbox

If your inbox has become a 2-year to-do list, start deleting it for 10 minutes at a time. Consider email bankruptcy if it’s a lost cause (select.all.delete.). If you don’t remember what emails you were saving and why . . . let them go!

  1. Thoughts

What’s swirling around up there? Write down 10 things on your mind, weighing you down, and preventing you from thinking clearly. Moving your worries from the brain to the paper will help you figure out the next step.

  1. Office

Are there things on your desk, in drawers, or hiding in a filing cabinet that you can easily let go of? Let go of the things in your office that don’t contribute to your purposeful, effective work style.

Now that you’ve let procrastination know that motivation and transformation have taken over, consider other decluttering challenges and resources to continue the momentum of moving forward to a simpler lifestyle.

Peace & Harmony ~

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Journey

Who Are You?

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Who Are You?

When you take a moment to reflect on who you are deep down, you’re setting the stage for living your life to the fullest. 

It’s like peeling back the layers of an onion to get to the core of your being. This process helps you rediscover your passions, values, and talents that might have been buried under layers of societal expectations or self-doubt. Embrace your true self and start living a life that’s authentically you, expressing your essence without holding back.

Getting to know yourself is like taking a trip that changes you for the better. When you finally figure out who you truly are, you’ll see your strengths and areas where you could grow. This makes it easier to make choices and do things that fit who you are. It’s like everything in your life starts to flow together better, making you feel happier and more content.

You know what? This whole mindfulness thing helps us find joy and satisfaction in the little things, like hanging out with friends and feeling like we’re part of something bigger. It’s like you start to realize what you’re good at and how you can use it to make the world a better place. And when you’re feeling good about yourself, it rubs off on other people, and they start to feel good too. It’s like a wave of positivity that spreads through your community.

Figuring out who we are is a lifelong journey that starts from the moment we’re born and ends when we take our last breath. By staying curious and open-minded, we can appreciate the beauty of life and understand why we’re here on Earth. Taking some time for self-reflection, whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature, can help us understand ourselves better. These practices can help us listen to our hearts and connect with our true selves — our souls.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you design a meaningful self-discovery journey:

1. Set Your Intentions

  • Identify Your Why: Start by understanding why you want to embark on this journey. Are you seeking clarity, healing, personal growth, or something else?
  • Define Your Goals: Set clear, achievable goals for your journey. This could be understanding your passions, identifying your strengths, or overcoming specific challenges.

2. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment

  • Choose Your Space: Dedicate a physical or mental space where you feel safe and comfortable to explore your thoughts and feelings.
  • Establish Boundaries: Protect your time and energy by setting boundaries that allow you to focus on your journey without distractions.

3. Self-Reflection Techniques

  • Journaling: Write daily or weekly reflections to track your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Prompt yourself with questions like “What makes me feel fulfilled?” or “What are my core values?”
  • Meditation and Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to stay present and connect with your inner self. Meditation can help you quiet your mind and listen to your intuition.
  • Creative Expression: Use art, music, dreamscape (vision board), or writing as a way to express your emotions and discover hidden aspects of yourself.

4. Explore New Perspectives

  • Read and Learn: Engage with books, podcasts, or workshops that challenge your current beliefs and expand your understanding of yourself and the world.
  • Seek Feedback: Talk to trusted friends, mentors, or a therapist to gain insights from others. Sometimes, others can see things about us that we can’t.

5. Take Action

  • Try New Things: Step out of your comfort zone and try activities, hobbies, or experiences that you’ve never done before. This can reveal passions and strengths you didn’t know you had.
  • Set Challenges: Push yourself with small challenges that align with your goals. For example, if you want to build confidence, set a goal to speak up more in meetings or social situations.

6. Reflect and Adjust

  • Regular Check-Ins: Periodically review your progress. Are you moving towards your goals? What have you learned about yourself so far?
  • Be Flexible: Your journey may evolve as you grow. Be open to changing your goals or methods as you gain new insights.

7. Celebrate Your Growth

  • Acknowledge Milestones: Celebrate your achievements and growth along the way, no matter how small.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself throughout the process. Self-discovery is not always easy, and it’s okay to have setbacks.

8. Integrate Your Discoveries

  • Apply What You’ve Learned: Use the insights you’ve gained to make positive changes in your life. This could involve making decisions that align with your values or pursuing new paths that resonate with your true self.
  • Continue Growing: Self-discovery is an ongoing process. Keep exploring, learning, and evolving as you move forward in life.

Happy Discovering! ♥ Cheryl

Posted in Transformation

Places We Journey

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

The Places We Journey

In life, most of us want stuff we’ve pictured in our heads. We got plans and ideas, some of them straight from the big guy upstairs, that we wanna see happen. We wanna be happy, successful, and healthy, which is all normal and human. So, when life throws us curveballs that we didn’t sign up for, it can feel like something went sideways or like we messed up somewhere along the way.

In real life, sometimes things happen that we don’t always understand. It’s like life has a plan for us, and these tough times are meant to help us grow and learn. It’s like life is saying, “Hey, wake up and pay attention! There’s something deeper going on here.” These challenges are meant to show us what we’re made of and make our lives more meaningful.

Often, it takes a big event to shake us up and make us realize that the ego isn’t really in control. Losing control can be humbling and help us see the bigger picture. It reminds us that there’s a lot we don’t know about the universe, and what we do know is just a tiny part of the big mystery we’re all a part of.

This mindfulness stuff makes us less tense and more easygoing because it helps us let go of our stubbornness and accept things as they are. Another cool thing about going through tough times is that we get to see all the old issues and emotional baggage that are blocking us from feeling happy. Happiness is always there inside us, whether things are going our way or not. Even when we’re feeling down, we can still believe that we can find happiness if we’re willing to accept the situation and work through it.

Picture this: you’re like a character from a fairy tale, lost in the middle of a gloomy forest, feeling scared and all alone. But here’s the thing, that journey through the dark woods, as gloomy as it may seem, has its unique beauty and depth. It’s like a transformative experience. When you come out on the other side, you’ll be a whole new person—lighter, brighter, bolder, and more confident for having faced that darkness.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Well Being

Stronger Than . . .

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Stronger Than You Believe

Our ability to handle life’s tough stuff is way better than our tendency to feel nervous.

We can get worked up in the days and hours before something big that we think will push us to the limit. We stress out like crazy until it’s finally here, and then we realize we are worrying for nothing. Turns out, we’re way stronger and more capable than we give ourselves credit for.

Anxiety is not something that can be reasoned away with logic alone. Sure, logic can help us see that worrying too much is pointless, but that doesn’t always make us feel better. Instead, we often find more relief in doing practical things or engaging in activities that take our minds off our worries.

Most of us have a hard time focusing on two different things at once. But this natural limitation can work in our favor when we’re feeling anxious. If we focus on something else, like deep breathing, imagining ourselves succeeding, doing something fun, or exercising, our anxiety will naturally go away.

Meditation can also be a helpful way to deal with stuff when you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’s like it gives you a way to get centered and focus on the present moment. And those meditation guides can be really helpful too. They give you something to focus on that’s different from whatever else is going on in your life.

You know that feeling you get right before you’re about to do something challenging? That mix of excitement and fear? Yeah, that’s normal. But if you want to enjoy the excitement more and stress less, here’s a tip: focus on getting rid of the fear.

I know it can be tough to stay calm and collected when things get overwhelming, but trust me, being aware of what’s going on inside your head can help you chill out and see that most of the obstacles you face aren’t as big as they seem at first glance.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Keeping Faith

Our Thoughts

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Head Space

Our thoughts pack a powerful punch in shaping our life experiences. 

Think back to a time when you were frustrated due to a misunderstanding, but then, as soon as you understood things differently, that frustration just vanished into thin air. That’s because our interpretation of events determines our experience, and it can change in an instant!

In the grand scheme of things, the present moment is all we’ve got. Instead of just going with the flow and letting life do its thing, we can use the power of our thoughts to create a reality that’s all sunshine and rainbows.

For instance, instead of getting hung up on traffic, we can choose to appreciate the beauty around us. Or, instead of focusing on the negative aspects of people, we can look for their admirable qualities. The way you interpret and define each moment shapes your reality, so choose wisely.

During the day, we can keep an eye on our thoughts to catch ourselves when we’re thinking negatively or focusing on things that aren’t helpful, like limiting beliefs. Instead, we can shift our attention back to the endless opportunities that the present moment offers.

Take a deep breath to help focus on being present in the moment. When we meditate regularly, we can control our minds and quiet our thoughts, allowing us to experience a sense of pure existence.

Listen! If you’re always stuck in the past or dreaming about the future, you’re missing out on the amazing NOW! moment right before your eyes. Setting goals is great, but don’t forget to focus on what you can do right now to make them happen.

Our minds are like super-powered machines that we can use to mold our own reality. It’s like we’re sculpting the universe with our visions and thoughts, turning its unshaped energy into something solid that guides what we say and do.

Every thought we have is like a pebble dropped into a pond, creating ripples that spread out and influence everything they encounter. We have the power to choose what we focus on and how we use our energy. This gives us the freedom to create the life we want, moment by moment.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Uncategorized

Embrace Yourself

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Self Love. . . Embrace Yourself!

Through consistent acts of self-kindness, you establish a solid foundation of resilience, strength, and self-assurance. This empowers you to effortlessly navigate life’s challenges and obstacles, allowing you to approach them with unwavering confidence.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, prioritizing self-care might appear like an insurmountable task. Our schedules are brimming with responsibilities, family commitments, and countless obligations that often leave scant time for nurturing our well-being. Nevertheless, dedicating even a few precious moments each day to self-care can have a transformative effect on our overall health and well-being.

Integrating self-care into your daily life doesn’t require drastic overhauls or significant time commitments. Simple actions like taking a brief meditation break, savoring a peaceful cup of tea, having a picnic on the beach, engaging in a short workout, or stepping outside for a few deep breaths can suffice. These micro self-care moments provide opportunities to reset your mental state, enhance energy levels, maintain physical fitness, reduce stress, and foster happiness. It’s crucial to recognize that self-care is not a privilege but a fundamental necessity for achieving a harmonious and balanced life.

The cumulative power of micro self-care is its true beauty. Daily practices, regardless of their duration, can have a significant impact when practiced consistently. These small acts of self-compassion gradually accumulate over time, building a solid foundation of resilience, confidence, and inner strength. This empowers you to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.

By prioritizing self-care, even for a few minutes each day, you not only enhance your own life but also positively impact those around you. By becoming a more centered, content, and present individual, you enrich the lives of others. Prioritizing self-care is a profound expression of self-love. Whether it’s scheduling it in your calendar or finding moments throughout your day, make time for self-nurturing activities. Your well-being is worth it!

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Uncategorized

Wisdom To Know When To Surrender

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Wisdom To Know When To Surrender

Fighting against something often strengthens it by giving it more attention and energy.

You know that feeling when something’s bugging you, and no matter how hard you try to ignore it, avoid it, or run away from it, it just won’t leave you alone? It’s like you think you can eliminate it by pushing it away, but it always comes right back. It’s like there’s some law of nature or something that says the more you resist something, the more it persists.

Fighting against something makes it stronger. It’s like giving it more attention and energy. Plus, when you’re resisting something, you’re not open to learning more about it. To understand something, you must be willing to take it in, even if it’s not what you want to hear. Otherwise, you’ll never learn from it.

Do you know that Tibetan story about a monk who went to meditate in a cave and got swarmed by demons? Well, this monk tried everything to get rid of them—he chased them, fought them, and even hid from them. But nothing worked until he finally decided to surrender. He just let the demons do whatever they wanted and poof! They vanished.

So, we’ve got this wisdom, but what do we do with it? We’re not meant to go around getting hurt, right? This story isn’t just about physical injuries, though. It’s also about the things that go on in our heads that bug us and won’t leave us alone. Those things have a way of showing up in our lives as people, events, and problems that seem like they’re out of our control.

Our outer appearances tell a lot about our inner selves. So, to truly conquer our fears and dislikes, we need to look deep within ourselves. It might be scary at first, and you’ll probably face a lot of resistance as you start to open up to your fears. But trust me, the more you let go and surrender, the more those demons that haunt you will fade away. And guess what? You’ll become braver and stronger in the process.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Summer 2024