As yet another gray day greets us, I am reminded of the word "HOPE". The weekend displayed what is just around the corner: sunshine, warmth, and all the "bonuses" that come with that! So what is this word HOPE? Many wise sages, ascended master, prophets, popes, ministers, whatever term fits your understanding of those that have an intimate walk with God/Creator/the Divine, that have shared their views of HOPE. There are so many different "words" to describe what we "feel" is divine and true. The words we use are most definitely important to our hearts; it's important to remember that each and every one of us has our own "words" that carry meanings that are uniquely personal for each of us. If we can remember this and respect this truth, we will assist the divine with bringing in the energy for which we can "plug" into and refuel our souls. There has been much "disorganizing", "diffusing", "disrespecting" of what is our personal knowing, and it has all been said in the name of the Almighty. As I look out at the gray skies, I am reminded that things are not "black or white", "right or wrong"; there is great wisdom in the gray area that allows us to go within and find our uniquely personal, true connection to whatever we define divine. IF each of us could respect this, there would be less conflict within ourselves, our family, our community and, indeed, our world.

So what does all this have to do with HOPE? This morning this is what I am shown: HOPE is Honoring Our Physical Experience. It is respecting that everything we choose involves a conscious choice, and with that choice comes the consequences of our actions. It is truly, the old and wise saying, "You reap what you sow". If we could begin at this very moment, to take responsibility for what we are choosing in our thoughts, words and actions, we would spend less time judging others and more time intimately knowing our true selves, and with that comes the intimate relationship with the divine. Wouldn't it be wonderful to see more focus on what is divine; (sort of like, let's look at what's working in our world, then what's "wrong" with it.) So, consider what HOPE means in your life by spending some of these gray moments considering your thoughts, words and actions and take responsibility for what you are creating! Life brings you what you are spending time noticing. For today, let HOPE show you where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there!