Hi everyone :)
Yes indeed I am! I’ve just returned home after presenting to a group of 40 fun and inspirational women and men at Douglas College. Yes, someone who’d attended my talk “The Power of Wellness & Extreme Self-Care” at Langara College’s Staff PD Day recommended me to someone in the Registrar’s Office at Douglas for their PD Day, and away I went. And let me tell you, this team blew me away and I left the building just a couple of hours ago feeling electrically charged. Good feeling! Still with me.
First, I discovered that this team enjoys two full Team PD days each year and that those days are organized by their Fun Committee. Yes, I like the sound and feel of that. A fun committee! And it was obvious that they knew something about fun because I could feel and hear the fun vibe coming from the Boardroom as soon as I got off the elevator on my way to join them. Good feeling. Still with me.
I asked the team leader if we could make some noise and she gave me the thumbs up and big smile. So, I challenged the group to stand up and give themselves a full minute standing ovation for all the excellent work they do – to move around the room and “high five” each other – to really celebrate themselves. Well no need for much challenge with this group – they got right into it. All the glee, smiles, and high fives felt like pure joyous energy because that what they were. And of course I jumped right in and joined them as they showered each other with congrats and human connection. Good feeling. Still with me. Oh, and they could have gone for 2 minutes, no sweat.
We had so much fun. And we formed a bond, even in that short time together – how could we not? They were so open, alive and ready to learn and lead. And speaking of leading, the best highlight for me came immediately after I spoke as the team leader thanked me and then shared a big idea with her team. Gives me goosebumps to think of it.
A little background first: During my talk, I’d shared the true story of a very successful small company whose leader was interviewed for a magazine article. He was asked “What is it that you do that makes your business so successful?” He replied, “Well, we do a lot of things but I think that the most important is that the whole team comes together at the start of each day and we begin the day with a 15 minute meditation.” So, the interviewer said “That’s amazing. Do you do that every day, even when you’re extra busy?” And to that the leader replied “No, not when we’re extra busy ... those days we meditate for 20 minutes”.
Well, you may have guessed what I’m going to say here. Today, the team leader at Douglas shared that she felt inspired and suggested to her team that she’d like to try that morning meditation with them – and she asked for folks to ponder this and for anyone that might have experience to volunteer to facilitate that. Wow! I mean wow. Talk about leadership. Like I said, gives me goosebumps. Good feeling. Still with me.
And lastly, one of the team members I spoke with during the break told me that they not only had a Fun Committee, but that they also have a Kudos Committee! Again, I think wow. A committee whose purpose is to give kudos to employees regularly; I love it. I love it because I know how kudos feel and I know that research shows that most of the time employees don’t leave companies because of the pay or benefit plans, they leave because they feel un-appreciated. Best idea I’ve heard in a long time, this Kudos committee. So I’m going to share it, starting here. Very, very good feeling. And yes, it’s still with me.
Can you feel it? Getting any ideas?
Love and thanks again and again for listening!
Lee
PS: I going to close my eyes right now and give a big high five to each of you for all the brilliant work you do. And, if you’re up for it, I invite you to stand up and give yourself a full minute (or longer) standing ovation ... high five yourself, anyone near you – and/or any pet. Oh, or maybe a family standing O. There’s an idea.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Lab Scientists are Fun ...
Hi everyone!
Last Friday I travelled out to gorgeous Harrison Hot Springs where I was scheduled to present the ending Keynote to 200 Lab Scientists at the 2009 British Columbia Society of Laboratory Science Congress. I checked into my room at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and was so happy to see that I had a lake view and could open the window, smell the freshest of fresh airs and take in the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains (one of which was blanketed with snow the next morning!).
After setting up my room for ultimate comfort (snacks/water, my own pillow cases, books, room service carafe of hot water for my nurturing teas) I journeyed out for a long walk along the beach and lakeside. The water was sparkling in the sun and I felt like a million dollars (I’m not quite sure what a million dollars feels like but I’m sure I was feeling at least that great, maybe even better). I kept thinking “I’m living my dream”, “I’m living my dream”. There is nothing I want to change or get better right now. This is lovely, magical, and perfect just as it is.
Then, just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, it did! I noticed two empty swings just waiting for me to hop on, pump away and savour the fun of vertigo. And then along came one of the conference attendees which gave me the opportunity to meet a Lab Scientist first hand. This may sound funny to you but I was feeling a little daunted by the prospect of speaking to 200 Scientists. After all, in college, I remember scanning down a list of chemistry courses, knowing that I had to sign up for at least one, and feeling enormously relieved when I saw “Chemistry for the Non-Scientist” on that list. Yes, I thought, that’s definitely me – a non-scientist. Now, skip to 24 years later and here I was, the closing act for a large group of scientists after they’d experienced three days of presentations with titles like “Blood Gases and Electrolytes for ICU: Why send to the Lab?” Can you imagine? I had no clue why.
Thankfully, whenever I noticed some anxiety about this, I reminded myself that two members of their organizing committee had personally seen me present the year before and obviously liked what they saw or they wouldn’t have requested my presence. I also reminded myself of the mantra that has calmed my soul time and time again ... “I don’t need to be special, I just need to be myself and enjoy these folks”. So true. As Joe Kennedy told all his children, "Do your best and then the 'heck' with it".
So I jumped off the swing and enjoyed meeting my first conference attendee, “Mary”. And Mary was just lovely. And of course it turned out that pretty much everyone I met was lovely. And more than that, they were FUN. Along with the blood gases and a host of similar issues, they also joined together for laughter yoga Saturday morning, and when I met attendees and told them what my topic was (The Power of Wellness & Fun), most would regale me with stories of what fun meant to them and how they seized it, especially in the work place. I gained a couple of great stories to share in my talk!
And, what do you know ... the closing act was full of fun. We talked, shared ideas, shared a 1 minute standing ovation for all attendees, gave and received a little massage, laughed and twirled at the same time, handed out treats and did some solid and refreshing deep breathing (otherwise known to many of you blog readers as the Relaxation Response). In short, we had a load of fun. We found common ground – the need, desire and appreciation for connection and laughter. And I was joyfully reminded, once again, that we are all more alike than we are un-alike.
On Sunday I travelled home, feeling refreshed and invigorated like never before – after a weekend of work. Living your dream is a good thing.
Call me grateful, as we approach Thanksgiving, and always!
Lee
PS: I realize that it’s a lie that I’m not a scientist. In fact I remember now that my graduate degree is an M.S. (Master of Science!). Funny. I think we’re all scientists in our own way, just as I know we’re all artists in our own way. There’s no one to impress – we simply get to be our own, wonderful, unique, self. What a relief.
Last Friday I travelled out to gorgeous Harrison Hot Springs where I was scheduled to present the ending Keynote to 200 Lab Scientists at the 2009 British Columbia Society of Laboratory Science Congress. I checked into my room at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort and was so happy to see that I had a lake view and could open the window, smell the freshest of fresh airs and take in the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains (one of which was blanketed with snow the next morning!).
After setting up my room for ultimate comfort (snacks/water, my own pillow cases, books, room service carafe of hot water for my nurturing teas) I journeyed out for a long walk along the beach and lakeside. The water was sparkling in the sun and I felt like a million dollars (I’m not quite sure what a million dollars feels like but I’m sure I was feeling at least that great, maybe even better). I kept thinking “I’m living my dream”, “I’m living my dream”. There is nothing I want to change or get better right now. This is lovely, magical, and perfect just as it is.
Then, just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, it did! I noticed two empty swings just waiting for me to hop on, pump away and savour the fun of vertigo. And then along came one of the conference attendees which gave me the opportunity to meet a Lab Scientist first hand. This may sound funny to you but I was feeling a little daunted by the prospect of speaking to 200 Scientists. After all, in college, I remember scanning down a list of chemistry courses, knowing that I had to sign up for at least one, and feeling enormously relieved when I saw “Chemistry for the Non-Scientist” on that list. Yes, I thought, that’s definitely me – a non-scientist. Now, skip to 24 years later and here I was, the closing act for a large group of scientists after they’d experienced three days of presentations with titles like “Blood Gases and Electrolytes for ICU: Why send to the Lab?” Can you imagine? I had no clue why.
Thankfully, whenever I noticed some anxiety about this, I reminded myself that two members of their organizing committee had personally seen me present the year before and obviously liked what they saw or they wouldn’t have requested my presence. I also reminded myself of the mantra that has calmed my soul time and time again ... “I don’t need to be special, I just need to be myself and enjoy these folks”. So true. As Joe Kennedy told all his children, "Do your best and then the 'heck' with it".
So I jumped off the swing and enjoyed meeting my first conference attendee, “Mary”. And Mary was just lovely. And of course it turned out that pretty much everyone I met was lovely. And more than that, they were FUN. Along with the blood gases and a host of similar issues, they also joined together for laughter yoga Saturday morning, and when I met attendees and told them what my topic was (The Power of Wellness & Fun), most would regale me with stories of what fun meant to them and how they seized it, especially in the work place. I gained a couple of great stories to share in my talk!
And, what do you know ... the closing act was full of fun. We talked, shared ideas, shared a 1 minute standing ovation for all attendees, gave and received a little massage, laughed and twirled at the same time, handed out treats and did some solid and refreshing deep breathing (otherwise known to many of you blog readers as the Relaxation Response). In short, we had a load of fun. We found common ground – the need, desire and appreciation for connection and laughter. And I was joyfully reminded, once again, that we are all more alike than we are un-alike.
On Sunday I travelled home, feeling refreshed and invigorated like never before – after a weekend of work. Living your dream is a good thing.
Call me grateful, as we approach Thanksgiving, and always!
Lee
PS: I realize that it’s a lie that I’m not a scientist. In fact I remember now that my graduate degree is an M.S. (Master of Science!). Funny. I think we’re all scientists in our own way, just as I know we’re all artists in our own way. There’s no one to impress – we simply get to be our own, wonderful, unique, self. What a relief.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Two Peace Summit Gems ...
Hi everyone ...
On Tuesday this week I was so blessed to be among His Holiness the Dalia Lama, many passionate & inspiring world leaders, and thousands of like minded change agents in the audience at the Orpheum for the 2009 Vancouver Peace Summit. Here are two of the most valuable gems that stood out for me, among so very, very many ...
1. Number one “life well lived” tip: Go inside. Yes. Again and again I hear and experience the most valuable thing we can do to feel more alive, vibrant and of service in the world. Go inside. Ask your body what it is feeling ... and just allow that feeling some space. No judgement. Ask your heart what it wants you to do. Be still and notice the answer. Be still and notice your breath. Your answers are there, your peace is there, your compassion (for yourself and others) is there ... it’s all there.
Eckhart Tolle shared research on the success of soccer penalty shoot out kicks: those players who turn inward and get still for 2-5 seconds after the signal to kick is heard are much more likely to score a goal than those players who kick the ball immediately after the signal. Amazing, right?
Even 5 minutes of stillness in the morning (to set the tone for a calmer day), or 30 seconds of stillness before an important meeting will reap noticeable pay offs for you.
2. Even though I wasn’t at this event (in body that is), I felt my attention drawn to the We Day Event at GM Place, where 16,000 teen leaders from across BC came to be inspired by each other and by the Dalai Lama, Craig and Marc Kielburger (Founders of Free the Children and the Me to We Movement), and a host of entertainers and passionate social activists. I couldn’t wait to read the Vancouver Sun write up.
The highlight for me was seeing the shining, vibrant face of Mia Farrow, arms in the air, facing the shining faces of this sea of peace-making young leaders ... and she said to them “You are the architects of the future. You are the generation I’ve been waiting for all my life.” Yes, indeed. We are surrounded on the earth today with so much compassion and love ... so many youth and so many peace-builders. I beam with gratefulness and I seize the challenge to continue being the peace I wish to see in the world ... more and more all the time! I know everyone who tunes into my blog feels the same commitment. I bow to the brilliance and love in each of you.
Love, peace, creativity and compassion,
Lee
On Tuesday this week I was so blessed to be among His Holiness the Dalia Lama, many passionate & inspiring world leaders, and thousands of like minded change agents in the audience at the Orpheum for the 2009 Vancouver Peace Summit. Here are two of the most valuable gems that stood out for me, among so very, very many ...
1. Number one “life well lived” tip: Go inside. Yes. Again and again I hear and experience the most valuable thing we can do to feel more alive, vibrant and of service in the world. Go inside. Ask your body what it is feeling ... and just allow that feeling some space. No judgement. Ask your heart what it wants you to do. Be still and notice the answer. Be still and notice your breath. Your answers are there, your peace is there, your compassion (for yourself and others) is there ... it’s all there.
Eckhart Tolle shared research on the success of soccer penalty shoot out kicks: those players who turn inward and get still for 2-5 seconds after the signal to kick is heard are much more likely to score a goal than those players who kick the ball immediately after the signal. Amazing, right?
Even 5 minutes of stillness in the morning (to set the tone for a calmer day), or 30 seconds of stillness before an important meeting will reap noticeable pay offs for you.
2. Even though I wasn’t at this event (in body that is), I felt my attention drawn to the We Day Event at GM Place, where 16,000 teen leaders from across BC came to be inspired by each other and by the Dalai Lama, Craig and Marc Kielburger (Founders of Free the Children and the Me to We Movement), and a host of entertainers and passionate social activists. I couldn’t wait to read the Vancouver Sun write up.
The highlight for me was seeing the shining, vibrant face of Mia Farrow, arms in the air, facing the shining faces of this sea of peace-making young leaders ... and she said to them “You are the architects of the future. You are the generation I’ve been waiting for all my life.” Yes, indeed. We are surrounded on the earth today with so much compassion and love ... so many youth and so many peace-builders. I beam with gratefulness and I seize the challenge to continue being the peace I wish to see in the world ... more and more all the time! I know everyone who tunes into my blog feels the same commitment. I bow to the brilliance and love in each of you.
Love, peace, creativity and compassion,
Lee
Friday, September 25, 2009
Awakening Along the Way ...
Hi fabulous friends ...
I really do admire a good awakening (otherwise known as an “Ah Ha” moment). It’s like someone turned the light on in a dark room and we get to see and feel new things, new ideas. And if it’s a big awakening, we might feel immobilized for a while – like we’re in a state of shock. The thought we’re now awake to feels so true and yet so profoundly life altering and new that we might feel like we’re in a daze, a state of awe. Each awakening is perfectly designed to move us along on our own unique life path of learning and growing up. And I don’t know about you, but I sure feel like I’m continually growing up, and growing in to my best life.
For example, I’m re-discovering that one very good way to pump up the action on awakenings (in other words, increase the number and/or magnitude of them) is to take a big leap of faith. Take a risk, seize the opportunity to do something that makes you feel nervous. Stretch yourself. Get out of your comfort zone for a change.
Naturally this leave from college teaching has presented plenty of stretching for me. Oh yes. Lots of comfort and joy, and yet lots of challenging and life altering awakenings in the few short months of this journey thus far ... one of which means the world to me. I want to share it with you here.
During the past year, my mom has been experiencing some pretty significant health challenges, and they’ve become gradually more pressing ironically since I’ve taken this leave. I’ve chosen to really be there for her – to do research, to go with her to appointments, to spend a little more time than usual with her just to socialize. She and I are very close and my decision to do this just felt natural.
However, about a month ago I noticed that I was starting to resent all the time this was taking. It felt like, once again, I was pushing my business projects and passions to the side. They would get what was left of me after mom and my clients got the best of me. And just when I started to really get into the “why me” question, the Universe popped the answer into my head. It occurred to me, in that one beautiful moment, that the statement was not “why me” but “lucky me”. Lucky me to have this timing so perfectly aligned – to have more free time to be there for her this year. I can’t imagine the stress I would have felt trying to work at the college, maintain my business AND be there for mom! What was starting to feel like an unwanted diversion and weight turned into a jewel of an opportunity in the blink of an eye. Just one key shift in perception and I felt greatly relieved, and oh so grateful. How blessed I am to have these moments to get to know her better than ever – to spend precious time with her, to learn and love. Priceless.
And you know, that awakening would have been enough for me for a long time, but I was to be given one more biggy, just seconds after that one. The Universe said “Hey Lee ... another thing. You’ve really got to commit to your own optimal health like never before if you want to thrive this year like never before. Yes, you have a lot to balance and if you truly want to balance well, serve well, shine well and enjoy the ride, you must sock in extra time to YOU”.
Wow. I thought, really? Yes. The answer is yes Lee, really. This was one of those “I know it in my bones” awakenings. No questions. No fudging. My burning desire to be the best I can be would, once again, catapult me forward to new and valuable levels of self-care, energy and opportunity. As a mentor and friend once said, “This life we have is very dear and not come by easily. We must cherish each day as if it were our last and do what we can to keep our health shored up that we may fulfill our destiny and purpose properly.” (C.S.)
Well said! What we put in to ourselves is all that we can put out. No more, no less. So, I committed in that moment to what I call “The Art of Extreme Self-Care”. I set some healthy boundaries, called in help where I could and boosted the three additional self-care areas I knew I’d let get slack. One, my food. My body knows what it wants and doesn’t want and I am now listening like never before. That’s big – eating, shopping and cooking in new ways. Big. Two, exercise. I doubled what I was doing. Three, FUN. The leisurologist had put fun at the bottom of her list again and was/am in need of serious injections (I’ve always been one of those “you teach what you most need to learn” folks). The good thing is that once I made the decision to seize the fun, it’s been pretty easy to find ideas and partners for the ride.
So that’s it. Yes indeed. What a ride life is, right? What precious opportunities we all get. We get off balance, we wake up, and we get to choose “what’s next?” It’s a dynamic thing and that sure makes it interesting, doesn’t it?
What I thought was solely a grand opportunity to dig into my business projects and passions has turned into that and so much more. Even more important are the extra moments with mom and shoring up my health. After all, what is anything I create in my business other than a reflection of what I have to offer in that moment? It’s all connected and it’s all good. Do you know what I mean?
Life is good, all is well.
Love and light,
Lee
PS: This doesn’t mean that the thought “I don’t have enough time for my business projects” doesn’t pop up here and there. It does. But I’ve learned to breath, remind myself of the truth, notice my return to health, and smile.
I really do admire a good awakening (otherwise known as an “Ah Ha” moment). It’s like someone turned the light on in a dark room and we get to see and feel new things, new ideas. And if it’s a big awakening, we might feel immobilized for a while – like we’re in a state of shock. The thought we’re now awake to feels so true and yet so profoundly life altering and new that we might feel like we’re in a daze, a state of awe. Each awakening is perfectly designed to move us along on our own unique life path of learning and growing up. And I don’t know about you, but I sure feel like I’m continually growing up, and growing in to my best life.
For example, I’m re-discovering that one very good way to pump up the action on awakenings (in other words, increase the number and/or magnitude of them) is to take a big leap of faith. Take a risk, seize the opportunity to do something that makes you feel nervous. Stretch yourself. Get out of your comfort zone for a change.
Naturally this leave from college teaching has presented plenty of stretching for me. Oh yes. Lots of comfort and joy, and yet lots of challenging and life altering awakenings in the few short months of this journey thus far ... one of which means the world to me. I want to share it with you here.
During the past year, my mom has been experiencing some pretty significant health challenges, and they’ve become gradually more pressing ironically since I’ve taken this leave. I’ve chosen to really be there for her – to do research, to go with her to appointments, to spend a little more time than usual with her just to socialize. She and I are very close and my decision to do this just felt natural.
However, about a month ago I noticed that I was starting to resent all the time this was taking. It felt like, once again, I was pushing my business projects and passions to the side. They would get what was left of me after mom and my clients got the best of me. And just when I started to really get into the “why me” question, the Universe popped the answer into my head. It occurred to me, in that one beautiful moment, that the statement was not “why me” but “lucky me”. Lucky me to have this timing so perfectly aligned – to have more free time to be there for her this year. I can’t imagine the stress I would have felt trying to work at the college, maintain my business AND be there for mom! What was starting to feel like an unwanted diversion and weight turned into a jewel of an opportunity in the blink of an eye. Just one key shift in perception and I felt greatly relieved, and oh so grateful. How blessed I am to have these moments to get to know her better than ever – to spend precious time with her, to learn and love. Priceless.
And you know, that awakening would have been enough for me for a long time, but I was to be given one more biggy, just seconds after that one. The Universe said “Hey Lee ... another thing. You’ve really got to commit to your own optimal health like never before if you want to thrive this year like never before. Yes, you have a lot to balance and if you truly want to balance well, serve well, shine well and enjoy the ride, you must sock in extra time to YOU”.
Wow. I thought, really? Yes. The answer is yes Lee, really. This was one of those “I know it in my bones” awakenings. No questions. No fudging. My burning desire to be the best I can be would, once again, catapult me forward to new and valuable levels of self-care, energy and opportunity. As a mentor and friend once said, “This life we have is very dear and not come by easily. We must cherish each day as if it were our last and do what we can to keep our health shored up that we may fulfill our destiny and purpose properly.” (C.S.)
Well said! What we put in to ourselves is all that we can put out. No more, no less. So, I committed in that moment to what I call “The Art of Extreme Self-Care”. I set some healthy boundaries, called in help where I could and boosted the three additional self-care areas I knew I’d let get slack. One, my food. My body knows what it wants and doesn’t want and I am now listening like never before. That’s big – eating, shopping and cooking in new ways. Big. Two, exercise. I doubled what I was doing. Three, FUN. The leisurologist had put fun at the bottom of her list again and was/am in need of serious injections (I’ve always been one of those “you teach what you most need to learn” folks). The good thing is that once I made the decision to seize the fun, it’s been pretty easy to find ideas and partners for the ride.
So that’s it. Yes indeed. What a ride life is, right? What precious opportunities we all get. We get off balance, we wake up, and we get to choose “what’s next?” It’s a dynamic thing and that sure makes it interesting, doesn’t it?
What I thought was solely a grand opportunity to dig into my business projects and passions has turned into that and so much more. Even more important are the extra moments with mom and shoring up my health. After all, what is anything I create in my business other than a reflection of what I have to offer in that moment? It’s all connected and it’s all good. Do you know what I mean?
Life is good, all is well.
Love and light,
Lee
PS: This doesn’t mean that the thought “I don’t have enough time for my business projects” doesn’t pop up here and there. It does. But I’ve learned to breath, remind myself of the truth, notice my return to health, and smile.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Life Coach RV Update ...
Hi dear friends ...
I’ve just returned to Vancouver from a September holiday in the beautiful and sunny (mostly) Okanagan Valley. My wonderful aunt took a cruise to Alaska and I took time to enjoy her gorgeous home, 2 blocks from Skaha Lake and beach in Penticton. I’d get up at 7:00, throw on some power-walking cloths and breath in the awesome views and pine scented air surrounding me as I explored my favourite spots and noticed how much some things have changed, and how much some things feel exactly the same, 30-40 years later.
My family moved to Penticton when I was 8 years old – very close to where my aunt lives now. I remember, like it was yesterday, my cousin Freddie and I competing to win the sand castle contest, along with the rest of our third grade classmates, on Skaha beach. As I walked along that same beach last week, I could see us there and feel Fred’s presence. He was larger than life my dear cousin Fred. And today, he still feels larger than life to me, almost 18 years after his death. He is my number 1 guardian angel, just as he was in life ... always getting my attention in different ways. He lived life large and reminds me to all the time.
During the summer of 1983 I was working as a Recreation Programmer in Naramata (very close to Penticton) ... having been hired by a young woman named Sharon, who became an instant best friend to me and a woman that radically changed my life for the better (more on that for another blog). After work each day (and I mean every day!), Sharon and I would hop in the car and head down to the beach and wait for “Captain Freddie” to zoom in and pick us up in his speed boat. We’d see him coming and we’d yell “Yeah for Captain Freddie!” and he loved all the attention. He’d pick us up and we’d water ski all over Okanagan Lake for a couple of hours, laughing and skiing. Laughing and taking turns skiing – that’s all I remember. We’d clap for Captain Fred and each other – so full of energy, fun and the spirit of it all. We were just in love with each other and the beauty of the moments – it was a truly brilliant summer. Sharon and I still love to reminisce about that summer, and I know we always will. Isn’t it amazing how much pleasure we can get out of reminiscing about special times, special people? It’s all here with me. Time could never take that away. What a gift.
Speaking of pleasure, I must have stopped 10 times on the route back to Vancouver ... to breath in the changing views and scents along the way. And when I reached Abbotsford, I could smell the ocean. I’m not kidding. Maybe it was the Fraser River or the Ocean or both, but I’m telling you I could smell it and it felt like the smell of home. Yummy, yummy, yummy. How refreshing. I love that there’s room in us to love one geography and place immeasurably, and then be carried away with awe and pleasure by another as well.
Which sort of brings me to my original intent for this blog entry (got carried away with reminiscing and just went with it). As most of you know, I’m on a one year LOA from Douglas College, where I teach in the Therapeutic Recreation Program. I felt called to move my biz and passion for coaching, speaking and creating to the next level. And, as some of you know, I’d planned to buy an RV, call it the “Life Coach” and travel around quite a bit this year. Well, first I want to say thanks to all of you who love this idea, have encouraged me on it, and/or have checked in to say hi and ask “where are you in your travels?”
The update is that the RV plans are on hold for now. The passion for that part of my dream is still very much alive and I believe the time will come. For now, the Universe is guiding me perfectly to stay put in lovely Vancouver this year (with the exception of some short adventures away here and there of course). And this feels good. In fact, it feels really good.
There are many pay-offs for me staying right here for now, and it’s become clear that one of the biggest is that my mom (who lives in Vancouver as well) is experiencing some health challenges and I get to have more time and space to support her, and to learn and grow through it myself. Perfect. All is as it is meant to be. I’m so grateful for this timing and opportunity.
So, I’m continuing to coach some of my clients face to face in my Vancouver space, and some on the phone, wherever they may be (or in the case of last week, wherever we both are – me in Penticton and them in their home locale) ... going with whatever mode feels better to each person. I highly value the flexibility, and I know they do too.
I’m also busy planning for two big Keynotes and a smaller workshop booked for me to present in Sept and Oct ... and creating a green audio CD of my favourite health and happiness tools (will be available soon!). Lots on the go and yet not so much that I’m not taking time out to enjoy Vancouver in my favourite month, September. It’s my birthday month, it’s the first month of my LOA, it smells of summer and fall combined and it feels rich with presence and opportunity ... in short, it feels pretty precious to me.
And as I write that, I’m reminded again that you also feel pretty precious to me. Thanks, as always, for listening and sharing your heart.
Be well and be blessed,
Lee
PS: Once the RV and “Life Coach” come on board, you’ll be among the first to know.
I’ve just returned to Vancouver from a September holiday in the beautiful and sunny (mostly) Okanagan Valley. My wonderful aunt took a cruise to Alaska and I took time to enjoy her gorgeous home, 2 blocks from Skaha Lake and beach in Penticton. I’d get up at 7:00, throw on some power-walking cloths and breath in the awesome views and pine scented air surrounding me as I explored my favourite spots and noticed how much some things have changed, and how much some things feel exactly the same, 30-40 years later.
My family moved to Penticton when I was 8 years old – very close to where my aunt lives now. I remember, like it was yesterday, my cousin Freddie and I competing to win the sand castle contest, along with the rest of our third grade classmates, on Skaha beach. As I walked along that same beach last week, I could see us there and feel Fred’s presence. He was larger than life my dear cousin Fred. And today, he still feels larger than life to me, almost 18 years after his death. He is my number 1 guardian angel, just as he was in life ... always getting my attention in different ways. He lived life large and reminds me to all the time.
During the summer of 1983 I was working as a Recreation Programmer in Naramata (very close to Penticton) ... having been hired by a young woman named Sharon, who became an instant best friend to me and a woman that radically changed my life for the better (more on that for another blog). After work each day (and I mean every day!), Sharon and I would hop in the car and head down to the beach and wait for “Captain Freddie” to zoom in and pick us up in his speed boat. We’d see him coming and we’d yell “Yeah for Captain Freddie!” and he loved all the attention. He’d pick us up and we’d water ski all over Okanagan Lake for a couple of hours, laughing and skiing. Laughing and taking turns skiing – that’s all I remember. We’d clap for Captain Fred and each other – so full of energy, fun and the spirit of it all. We were just in love with each other and the beauty of the moments – it was a truly brilliant summer. Sharon and I still love to reminisce about that summer, and I know we always will. Isn’t it amazing how much pleasure we can get out of reminiscing about special times, special people? It’s all here with me. Time could never take that away. What a gift.
Speaking of pleasure, I must have stopped 10 times on the route back to Vancouver ... to breath in the changing views and scents along the way. And when I reached Abbotsford, I could smell the ocean. I’m not kidding. Maybe it was the Fraser River or the Ocean or both, but I’m telling you I could smell it and it felt like the smell of home. Yummy, yummy, yummy. How refreshing. I love that there’s room in us to love one geography and place immeasurably, and then be carried away with awe and pleasure by another as well.
Which sort of brings me to my original intent for this blog entry (got carried away with reminiscing and just went with it). As most of you know, I’m on a one year LOA from Douglas College, where I teach in the Therapeutic Recreation Program. I felt called to move my biz and passion for coaching, speaking and creating to the next level. And, as some of you know, I’d planned to buy an RV, call it the “Life Coach” and travel around quite a bit this year. Well, first I want to say thanks to all of you who love this idea, have encouraged me on it, and/or have checked in to say hi and ask “where are you in your travels?”
The update is that the RV plans are on hold for now. The passion for that part of my dream is still very much alive and I believe the time will come. For now, the Universe is guiding me perfectly to stay put in lovely Vancouver this year (with the exception of some short adventures away here and there of course). And this feels good. In fact, it feels really good.
There are many pay-offs for me staying right here for now, and it’s become clear that one of the biggest is that my mom (who lives in Vancouver as well) is experiencing some health challenges and I get to have more time and space to support her, and to learn and grow through it myself. Perfect. All is as it is meant to be. I’m so grateful for this timing and opportunity.
So, I’m continuing to coach some of my clients face to face in my Vancouver space, and some on the phone, wherever they may be (or in the case of last week, wherever we both are – me in Penticton and them in their home locale) ... going with whatever mode feels better to each person. I highly value the flexibility, and I know they do too.
I’m also busy planning for two big Keynotes and a smaller workshop booked for me to present in Sept and Oct ... and creating a green audio CD of my favourite health and happiness tools (will be available soon!). Lots on the go and yet not so much that I’m not taking time out to enjoy Vancouver in my favourite month, September. It’s my birthday month, it’s the first month of my LOA, it smells of summer and fall combined and it feels rich with presence and opportunity ... in short, it feels pretty precious to me.
And as I write that, I’m reminded again that you also feel pretty precious to me. Thanks, as always, for listening and sharing your heart.
Be well and be blessed,
Lee
PS: Once the RV and “Life Coach” come on board, you’ll be among the first to know.
Friday, August 28, 2009
You're Stronger Than You Know ...
I just returned from a fabulous little visit to one of my favourite Gulf Islands ... Saltspring Island. And on the ferry ride over, I picked up a copy of the September edition of “O”, the Oprah Magazine. I was immediately attracted to the theme listed on the front cover reminding me “You’re Stronger Than You Know”. Time and time again in my life, I’ve found this to be true and so I was intrigued and eager to get my hot cup of tea, get comfy, dig into the contents and enjoy.
And enjoy I did! In particular I was inspired and gifted with one of those gems that comes your way every so often and feels like a real keeper. It came from one of my favourite authors and people - Elizabeth Lesser, Cofounder of the Omega Institute and author of Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow. She was one of four women asked by “O” to share what power meant to them, and where they find it in their lives (p. 28). Each woman was asked to finish 5 sentences. Before I go on, I’d like to offer you the sentences in case you’d like to finish them yourself before I offer my own thoughts and share the gem that really stood out for me.
1. I feel true power when ...
2. The most powerful woman I ever met was ...
3. Too often, people confuse power and ...
4. I feel least powerful when ...
5. When I need a power boost ...
Okay ... I don’t know if you finished the sentences, but I hope some of you did, and I hope you discovered (or re-discovered) something wonderful. Here’s how I choose to complete those sentences today.
I feel true power when I’m connected to Spirit, which is another way of saying when I’m taking lots of time for enjoying the great outdoors and for prayer and meditation. The most powerful woman I ever met was either Marianne Williamson (author of A Return to Love & teacher of A Course in Miracles) or Joan Borysenko, Ph.D. (Medical Scientist, author and true Mind, Body, Spirit Expert). Too often, people confuse power and status or ego. I feel least powerful when I let myself get too busy for extreme self-care (this doesn’t happen often anymore, at least not much or for long, but when it does, I sure notice when the ease and joy have “left the building!”). When I need a power boost, I breathe deeply and go outside into nature.
And here’s the gem I really love, from Elizabeth Lesser. Her answer to the “When I need a power boost...”: “I place my hand on my heart, take a deep breath, and feel my connection to everyone”. The moment I read that, I put the magazine down and followed through. What an immediate shift in energy I felt. I felt a deep sense of calm, stillness and true power ... the kind that comes from connecting to the ultimate power Source that is Spirit– always there, 24/7, vibrating peace, love, joy and the power to heal the planet and everything on it with ease. What a truly powerful feeling. I’m pretty sure that I’ve never connected to Source so deeply, so quickly before. I highly recommend that you try it yourself.
So, dear friends and readers ... I offer a toast. Here’s to owning and expressing our true power! Whatever that is for you, please breath it in and let it shine ... as my opening blog video reminds us ... we all have the power to lead.
Love and hugs to you all – I feel our connection, big time.
Lee
And enjoy I did! In particular I was inspired and gifted with one of those gems that comes your way every so often and feels like a real keeper. It came from one of my favourite authors and people - Elizabeth Lesser, Cofounder of the Omega Institute and author of Broken Open: How Difficult Times Can Help Us Grow. She was one of four women asked by “O” to share what power meant to them, and where they find it in their lives (p. 28). Each woman was asked to finish 5 sentences. Before I go on, I’d like to offer you the sentences in case you’d like to finish them yourself before I offer my own thoughts and share the gem that really stood out for me.
1. I feel true power when ...
2. The most powerful woman I ever met was ...
3. Too often, people confuse power and ...
4. I feel least powerful when ...
5. When I need a power boost ...
Okay ... I don’t know if you finished the sentences, but I hope some of you did, and I hope you discovered (or re-discovered) something wonderful. Here’s how I choose to complete those sentences today.
I feel true power when I’m connected to Spirit, which is another way of saying when I’m taking lots of time for enjoying the great outdoors and for prayer and meditation. The most powerful woman I ever met was either Marianne Williamson (author of A Return to Love & teacher of A Course in Miracles) or Joan Borysenko, Ph.D. (Medical Scientist, author and true Mind, Body, Spirit Expert). Too often, people confuse power and status or ego. I feel least powerful when I let myself get too busy for extreme self-care (this doesn’t happen often anymore, at least not much or for long, but when it does, I sure notice when the ease and joy have “left the building!”). When I need a power boost, I breathe deeply and go outside into nature.
And here’s the gem I really love, from Elizabeth Lesser. Her answer to the “When I need a power boost...”: “I place my hand on my heart, take a deep breath, and feel my connection to everyone”. The moment I read that, I put the magazine down and followed through. What an immediate shift in energy I felt. I felt a deep sense of calm, stillness and true power ... the kind that comes from connecting to the ultimate power Source that is Spirit– always there, 24/7, vibrating peace, love, joy and the power to heal the planet and everything on it with ease. What a truly powerful feeling. I’m pretty sure that I’ve never connected to Source so deeply, so quickly before. I highly recommend that you try it yourself.
So, dear friends and readers ... I offer a toast. Here’s to owning and expressing our true power! Whatever that is for you, please breath it in and let it shine ... as my opening blog video reminds us ... we all have the power to lead.
Love and hugs to you all – I feel our connection, big time.
Lee
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
My One Job - Caring for the Vessel ...
Just as I sat down to write this post, my inner voice prompted me to take a 5 minute “time out” for a little meditation first. Knowing that the quality of post would be better because of it, I did.
I knew that the post would be better because I would be better. I mean, what is a post but an expression of what I have to offer in this moment? How could I offer you anything other than what I have in the now? It’s not possible.
What is possible though is to put fuel into the vessel for the blog – me! Thankfully, the Universe likes to remind me (& sometimes I need regular reminders!) that I really only have ONE job on this planet. My job is to feel good. That’s it. If I run around (physically and/or mentally) thinking “I’m so busy, I have so much to do”, I lose precious energy. In short I feel bad. And when I feel bad, I lose my connection to the Divine and become less and less effective at helping myself, let alone others. As Wayne Dyer likes to say, “You can’t get sick enough to help others heal.” To be our best selves and live our best life, for ourselves and for those we love, we need to be well.
We need to feel truly good. We deserve to feel truly good. We are so well worth it! You are well worth it. I am well worth it. We are all well worth it. The earth we live on is well worth it too. Because we're one, when we feel good, the earth feels better, right? When we feel good, we’re able to show up more fully in our lives, right? Our light shines more fully. Our purpose naturally manifests itself and we feel better than ever. It’s so good to know that what I do for me, naturally I do for everyone and everything else. It’s always that way. There is nothing we could do to change that.
The wiser I get, which is another way of saying the more tuned into Universal wisdom I am, the more I understand that NOTHING is more important than that I feel good. I just love that. Let me say it again. NOTHING is more important than that I feel good. What a perfect wellness prescription for life and for a great blog post.
The feel good prescription for me and the post was a 5 minute mountain meditation. It refuelled and inspired me beautifully. I sat, breathed deeply and visualized my favourite mountain. I felt the strength of the mountain enter my being. I felt the power of the mountain fuel every cell in my body. I felt the presence of the mountain teaching me to be still. With the first breath of the meditation I felt better than I did the moment before. With the second breath, a smile came to my lips. I felt so deeply grateful for the mountain and for that precious reminder that my only job is to feel good.
And with that, I feel this post is complete. I trust that this is exactly what the Universe wanted me to share today. Thanks for listening and witnessing friends – always. I send you lots of love, and all green lights ...
Lee
PS: Do you notice that I love a good “PS”? I’m just noticing that now. Okay, here it is: If you’ve read this and you’re thinking “Yes, I get it but I’m so tired that I don’t even know what would feel good” I have two things I’d like to share with you.
First, you’ve got a lot of wonderful company. Thousands upon thousands of other beautiful souls are thinking the same thing right now. The other good news is that the Universe is fully on your side, and that’s enough power to shift anything in a moment. Second, may I suggest that you start with the simplest of things: one good, full, deep breath. And if that feels good, take another. And if you feel open to some extra help, place your hand on your heart, close your eyes, and take another 2-3 deep breaths. Now, place your attention on your heart and ask “what is needed for me to feel good, right now?” Continue breathing and just allow whatever comes up to guide you. Your heart knows. You are so loved.
I knew that the post would be better because I would be better. I mean, what is a post but an expression of what I have to offer in this moment? How could I offer you anything other than what I have in the now? It’s not possible.
What is possible though is to put fuel into the vessel for the blog – me! Thankfully, the Universe likes to remind me (& sometimes I need regular reminders!) that I really only have ONE job on this planet. My job is to feel good. That’s it. If I run around (physically and/or mentally) thinking “I’m so busy, I have so much to do”, I lose precious energy. In short I feel bad. And when I feel bad, I lose my connection to the Divine and become less and less effective at helping myself, let alone others. As Wayne Dyer likes to say, “You can’t get sick enough to help others heal.” To be our best selves and live our best life, for ourselves and for those we love, we need to be well.
We need to feel truly good. We deserve to feel truly good. We are so well worth it! You are well worth it. I am well worth it. We are all well worth it. The earth we live on is well worth it too. Because we're one, when we feel good, the earth feels better, right? When we feel good, we’re able to show up more fully in our lives, right? Our light shines more fully. Our purpose naturally manifests itself and we feel better than ever. It’s so good to know that what I do for me, naturally I do for everyone and everything else. It’s always that way. There is nothing we could do to change that.
The wiser I get, which is another way of saying the more tuned into Universal wisdom I am, the more I understand that NOTHING is more important than that I feel good. I just love that. Let me say it again. NOTHING is more important than that I feel good. What a perfect wellness prescription for life and for a great blog post.
The feel good prescription for me and the post was a 5 minute mountain meditation. It refuelled and inspired me beautifully. I sat, breathed deeply and visualized my favourite mountain. I felt the strength of the mountain enter my being. I felt the power of the mountain fuel every cell in my body. I felt the presence of the mountain teaching me to be still. With the first breath of the meditation I felt better than I did the moment before. With the second breath, a smile came to my lips. I felt so deeply grateful for the mountain and for that precious reminder that my only job is to feel good.
And with that, I feel this post is complete. I trust that this is exactly what the Universe wanted me to share today. Thanks for listening and witnessing friends – always. I send you lots of love, and all green lights ...
Lee
PS: Do you notice that I love a good “PS”? I’m just noticing that now. Okay, here it is: If you’ve read this and you’re thinking “Yes, I get it but I’m so tired that I don’t even know what would feel good” I have two things I’d like to share with you.
First, you’ve got a lot of wonderful company. Thousands upon thousands of other beautiful souls are thinking the same thing right now. The other good news is that the Universe is fully on your side, and that’s enough power to shift anything in a moment. Second, may I suggest that you start with the simplest of things: one good, full, deep breath. And if that feels good, take another. And if you feel open to some extra help, place your hand on your heart, close your eyes, and take another 2-3 deep breaths. Now, place your attention on your heart and ask “what is needed for me to feel good, right now?” Continue breathing and just allow whatever comes up to guide you. Your heart knows. You are so loved.
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