Feeling that you are loved is one of the greatest gifts

While mulling over all of my worries and woes in my mind (which I seem to do a bit more often these days) all of a sudden an image of my mom popped into my head. This caused me to pause, exhale, and say to myself, "but at least I'm loved" and every negative thought went away. This little moment left me to thinking about the importance of knowing that you are loved makes in one's life. And since today is Valentine's Day, I thought it most appropriate to share my thoughts with you on this subject.

All souls are born to be loved but not all feel that they are. When one feels loved they tend to be more grounded, secure, and self aware; as well as empathetic. Knowing you are loved is a bit different then actually feeling it. Anyone can say that they love you, and you may believe them, but not necessarily feel it. 

To feel loved means that you feel unconditionally accepted. Not everyone has this kind of love in their life. There are many reasons whys one does not feel loved. Sometimes, it's due to lack of nurturing by one or both parents where they do not feel worthy of another's love and so they reject the notion. Childhood trauma of any kind can lead to a distorted view of one's self worth. Or it could be the way in which you view yourself, by being too critical. For example, hating the way you look.

Whatever the reason for not feeling loved, it does not change the fact that it puts you in a very lonely state of mind. Self destructive behavior is something that is not uncommon. Another detriment of not feeling loved, of course, is depression.

This is why I consider feeling loved a gift. Not everyone is blessed with the comfort of knowing that no matter what, you will always be one of the most important things in another's life (in a healthy way, that is). 

When life get clustered, for whatever reason, it's always a good idea to just take a minute or two and feel the love that you know to be true. There really is no quicker fix (for the moment at least) to an anxious mind. And who knows, it may actually help to guide you through whatever process you need to go through. 

I am so grateful for many, many things, most of which are priceless because of the human factor involved. My hope for you, dear reader, is that this feeling of love is abundant in your life also; and that it helps to carry you through the tough roads that we find must be traveled as well as the little moments in your head that need a bit of readjustment by reflection.

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

FROM ME TO YOU

Thoughtful Thoughts.....

This is a most powerful message.

It's always a good idea (especially during rough times), to take a moment and look at your life and realize how many blessings you have accumulated and are fortunate enough to share with others.

The earth is a very large place and we are all connected to each other, our brothers and sisters.

Please know this, dear reader, that being grateful is essential to having peace of mind.

It can also be a catalyst for you/us to reach out and make a difference in those lives who are less fortunate than our own.

As you can see, from reading the above poster, there are more people who live in suffrage than in the land of good and plenty.

I know that these are very tough times for most, on one level or another.

I know that we all have our own issues to deal with.

I know that we all hope for a better world to live in and leave to future generations.

I also know, that we are all blessed in one way or another.

As I am blessed, to have you, dear reader, spend a moment with me.

For this I am inspired.

For this I am grateful.

New Pages!

Hello Dear Readers,

I have finally figured out how to add pages to my blog. Had a bit of an issue having them show up on the main page. Now, I must think about what to put up on these additional pages. In the mean time, they are sort of in a test mode, so please be patient with me. I do not want to post anything on them just for the sake of posting.

I am looking forward to adding some more inspiring pictures, thoughts, and maybe a few surprises.

I appreciate your support while I get this all straighten out and set up.

One more thing, if you have any suggestions, I would me more than willing to considering them.

Thanks again for your continued interest in my blog. I feel truly grateful for every view, comment, and acknowledgment.

Your Dear Friend,
 Marilu  aka, Peace and Harmony

A Gift of Survival........

After surviving an Earthquake and a Hurricane this week, thought I would share with you, dear reader, some beautiful rainbow roses. I do hope you enjoy them.

 They seem to be symbolic in a few of ways. First, they are beautiful, which is what each one of us are. Second they are unusual, which all of us are. Thirdly, they seem to be miraculous because of their rarity, which we all are; miracles.

 My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you have have suffered any type of loss during this crazy week of what seems like Mother Nature's Wrath. Hoping you can find some peace of mind sooner rather than later.

Be Well. Be Happy. Be Grateful.

Today's Gift 7/14/11: The Butterfly Bush

The Butterfly Bush at our home lives right beside our back patio and can be seen without obstruction through the family room window. We are fortunate enough to be able to enjoy all of the visitors as they stop by, but for a brief moment. They include; humming birds,dragonflies and of course the glorious butterflies (to name a few). I am grateful to have their company even though their stay is short and sweet!

Sharing is Caring......

There are those among us who share freely and those who do not. There are those who give without hesitation and there are those who do not. There are those who have not much to give but do any way and those who have more than they could possibly need and choose to hoard it all away. The way in which people share or not reveals a lot about their character.

First, I'd like to speak to sharing in literal terms concerning tangible things. These things that we posses that others would find great joy in having a bit of it. For instance, an old family recipe, divisions of plants from your garden or it's bounty, a bottle of wine, or even a homemade meal (to name a few). These may not seem like great gifts, but if they are given and shared with love and kindness, they are treasures just as you are for doing so.

 Some other things that are shared are items of means, such as a transportation, a job opening lead, financial assistance, advice on how to do something, or a new friend with common interests.

Then, there are the most important gifts we share: the ones in which come from inside ourselves, for instance our minds, our hearts, our passion, our vision, our guidance, and even our time. All of these things are intangible and priceless.

When you happen upon individuals who for whatever reason cannot find it in themselves to share in any of the ways stated above, you will notice that they do not posses kindness of heart. They will tend to be the first ones there to take from you (and others) and the only thing they seem to be able to share easily are lies and sad stories. This is a pity. They know no peace, They know no connection. They are too wrapped up in themselves to consider others. By all means, please try as best you can to stay away from this type of person, for they will leave you feeling drained and confused.

Whatever and whenever we choose to give to another, the payback is tenfold. It comes to us in the satisfaction of helping someone (or in some cases, many) out. The joy of sharing brings peace and harmony to everyone involved during this type of transaction.

So if you are a sharer, please continue and know that in doing so, you bring comfort to others. And if you find that you are not accustomed to sharing, please give it a try. Step out of yourself for a moment and give freely of yourself, whatever it is. I guarantee wonderful results. Be careful as to not overindulge another, as this can turn out have a negative affect on all involved, leaving you resentful and them needy and spoiled.

In closing, please let me say that I am always grateful for these opportunities to share with you, dear reader, my thoughts in these posts with the hopes that you may find peace of mind in each one. Thank you!

Today's Gift 6/19/11: Papa's Meatballs

My parents are here on their yearly visit. They usually stay with us 3 weeks, give or take. During this particular, visit we've been fortunate enough to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary as well as Father's Day. Every time they come to see us my dad makes his obligatory 200 meatballs. Yes, that's right, it's a tradition.

Coincidentally, today being Father's Day, he is making his meatballs this afternoon aided by my daughter (his assistant). My mom and I will be making sure that all the items needed for this process be laid out and at the ready for him before he makes his way downstairs and begins his labor of love. My son will probably show up (from staying at a friends overnight) just in time to eat them. And the wafting smell will lure my husband up from the basement from whatever secret experiment he is currently conducting down there.

This labor of love is one of the most anticipated and appreciated gifts we receive from my dad, steeped in the Italian tradition of how food equates to love. You see, for us, by cooking for someone you are expressing your love and affection toward them. My dad loves to cook for us and he gets great joy from the looks on our faces as we savor every single bite of whatever creation he has put forth. Today, it is his meatballs!

This is a multi-sensory gift. The process itself of the collecting of ingredients and laying everything out, the conversations during the preparation and cooking, the savory aroma that fills the house for days, the unforgettable taste and texture, and the big smiles all around and the hugs and kisses of appreciation.

When they are all done, we will package the remainder up in plastic freezer bags for use at a later time. Long after our bellies have recovered from overfill. Long after the smell has dissipated. Long after he has gone back home. Each time we open a bag, the memories and the love come right out and sustains us till the next visit. The next meatball bonanza. The next warm hug and kiss. The next time we see dad.

Wishing all a warn and loving Father's Day. We love you Papa!

Today's Gift 6/5/11: The Cherry Tree

Oh the Cherry Tree! Besides it's beauty, it is there to replenish my thirst as I drive my mower underneath on a hot Summer's day. The sweet yet sour taste is a welcome refuge from the heat on a sultry afternoon here in Northern Virginia. I will be forever grateful for this glorious masterpiece given to me by mother nature.

Today's Gift 5/21/11: The Peonies I get to cut and bring indoors!

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After a long day of garden chores, I consider it a wonderful treat to be able to pick something out and bring it indoors to admire close up. The smell and texture of these Pink Peonies are, for me, are just to die for. And so, I am grateful to be able to grow, cut and arrange them.

The constant gloater and braggers......

When good fortune has been bestowed upon a loved one, no matter what your current situation, you should find it in yourself to be genuinely happy for them. That being said, I often run into those who feel a great need to be on a constant mission to gloat and brag so much and so often, it is as though they have a need to prove to those around them that they are better in a most degrading way. All this type of behavior accomplishes is to alienate those around them and cause major resentment. For me, these types are very easy to see through. They tend to be, in reality, very insecure people set on a constant course of self acceptance. They have no peace of mind, while being too self absorbed and clueless to the negative vibe they create around them.

So, I say, if you find that you must spend time with these creatures, my best advice is to not get caught up in their stories of wealth and good fortune. Do not take great notice in their new car, suit, home addition, or even the world cruise they are planning to take. Just sit back and observe, don't feed their needy ego. And when you are able to leave their "space", take a deep breath and be grateful that you would never behave in such a way, for you have great empathy for those around you. You have a peaceful mind.

Being grateful for the "little things".......

For today's post I would like to speak to the "little things" and how I am truly grateful for each and every one. Sometime, all we have are these little gifts to make us smile and recognize the good that surrounds us. I try and find at least one thing per day to be grateful for no matter how insignificant it may seem. For instance; while I'm doing laundry (which I do not like doing), I may say a prayer of gratitude that I have a family to do laundry for and the appliances to do them with. It's all about your perspective.

Other times, it's when I notice something in the garden blooming. Like the peonies above that showed themselves to me today. Or maybe my back hurts a bit after I do chores yet I am grateful that I could move around and do them in the first place.

I think it most important to try and find the bright side. Now, I know, that there are many instances in which there is none to be seen but maybe, if you look a little deeper, you'll find it somewhere somehow. For instance, if you are ill and yet have some one to care for you. Or maybe the insurance bill was high but not as high as you though it would be. Insurance bills make no one happy, but then again, there are many without insurance and so one should feel a bit of gratitude in having it. Yes, it's just pouring rain at your house, but you have shelter and some others have to evacuate their homes because of potential floods.

Seeing things in a different and more positive light may help you tone down your need to complain and whine. Those traits can become tiresome. In doing so, your simple life may become more joyful. Finding joy in the mundane can be difficult but with practice it will become second nature.

I thought that it would be nice if I randomly posted short notes with or without pictures in regards to the what I am grateful for called "Today's Gift". Starting today, my gift is the above pictured pink peonies that have bloomed in my garden. They are one of my favorite flowers. Their scent is divine and their petals, full and seemingly infinite. The fact that they come back every year to greet me is very comforting.

May you also find peace and joy in the little things in your life. Looking around, they are just waiting for you to notice!