What Are You Willing To Leave Behind?

Today I close the door to the past, open the door to the future,
take a deep breath,step on through and start a new chapter in my life. 

 - Unknown

In order to step through the door of new beginnings questions must be answered.  And from those questions  decisions must be made.  The most important question I ask myself  is...what am I willing to leave behind?


To be genuinely happy, am I willing to let go of all the unhappiness that I have carried all these years?  Am I willing to leave behind the judgments of others and the judgements I hold for myself? What would living  a life free of judgment and self condemnation truly feel like to me?  Am I willing to leave behind the fears associated with these judgments?  Better yet, am I willing to leave behind the fears of having nothing to take judgment's place?


What am I willing to leave behind?  What would it feel like?  What would it look like?  How would I act and appear?


I took it a few steps further and ask myself why I felt to live in judgement?  Whether I was the one doing the judging or the one being judged...what was driving me to accept this as part of my life? My story?  I know I don't like the feelings being judged brings out in me.  And I'm sure no one in their right mind enjoys it either.  So I went a little deeper and asked why would I accept judgment into my being?  The one word that immediately popped into my head was acceptance.  Of course this followed by a resounding WTF?  But as I went deeper into Theta the understanding of it all became clearer.   I learned at an early age that judging was a form of acceptance. Acceptance into a tribe.  (Yea, I rolled my eyes at that one too!)   The more I stretched my consciousness the more sense it made. Everybody (no exceptions) yearns acceptance.  It is this yearning that draws many into cliques.  We've all seen those movies with the "cool kids"  you know the ones I'm talking about. The ones that sneer and jeer at everybody who isn't just like them.  And while there are some who really don't like being in that group, they stay with it and go along with the "in crowd" all for the sake of acceptance. 



That was certainly a WOW moment!  So today, I choose to leave behind judgment.  It's a decision I have made.  To live the life I love, I choose a life that embraces acceptance without conditions.   



I don't know how I embrace acceptance of myself and others, I only know that I do now and I am Fulfilled!



I don't know how I love & accept myself and others unconditionally, I only know I do now and I am Fulfilled!



How does that feel? Liberating!  Energizing!  What does that look like?  Beautiful. Flawless. 

*******

What I notice after doing this One Command is how I see others.  I notice that I now see more of their positive qualities.  I notice the subtle things about the people I work with--the gentleness in their demeanor; the kindness in their eyes.    And I notice something pretty awesome when I look in the mirror...a glow.  Never really noticed that before until now.  

I'm sure it was always there--but now that I abandoned the tribe of judgment, I see others as they truly are and not through dingy lenses of what I once perceived them to be.  What I once perceived myself to be.

Namaste!

About Julia K. Cole

What can you expect from someone who considers Putting Reality Back Into Spirituality a personal calling? Straight forward answers that lead to life-changing experiences on a soul level!

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience. 

In the style of Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way. 

As a writer, Julia is a virtual powerhouse of creativity.  Among Julia's literary accomplishments is  the  Children of the Luminaries  trilogy;  Book One: The Coming Storm can be purchased by clicking Here.   

Book Two  of the trilogy is due out in the Fall of 2015 and Book Three will be available in 2016.  The long anticipated ZEN of Duct Tape:  An Empress Is Born will be out in 2016.  As well as The Teddy Mitchell Chronicles.

Julia has also contributed to several other publications including Brad Steiger's  Real Zombies, The Living Dead, and Creatures of the Apocalypse  and Marie D. Jones' Destiny vs. Choice 

PLEASE NOTE:  All artwork, unless otherwise specified, are the property of the individual artists themselves. The author of these blogs claims no ownership of the original artwork, but only of the sig tags created using said artwork. Each sig tag shown on these blogs include the appropriate copyright information of the Artists and the unique licensure for use.

Reproduction and copying of said work without proper authority is strictly prohibited Unless otherwise specified, ALL articles on this Blogger are the property of Julia K. Cole.  The ZEN of Duct Tape™, it's name, teachings, modalities, and all excerpts; the nicknames The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape™,  The Duct Tape Diva™; Putting Reality Back Into Spirituality™, Reality back into Spirituality™ are the property and trade marks of Julia K. Cole and are protected under Copy Right Laws both here in the USA and Around The World. 

 

 

Stages of The Awakening Process: Part 1

 Your awakening process isn’t just about becoming consciously aware -- it's about growing up and maturing as well.    For many, this doesn’t always  go hand in hand.  

• There are those who believe that just being aware is enough.  It isn’t.    

• There are those who believe that if they repeat certain “catch phrases” this will magically and automatically turn them into a full grown and matured awaken individual.  It doesn’t.  

• There are those who believe that if they hold on to the ways and teachings of those that came before them … this too will make them more awake, more aware and make them  mature, complete and whole.  That is more than enough  It isn't.

These are only a small part of your spiritual maturity -- the first steps towards your spiritual growth, if you will. 

Your spiritual awakening is much like your physical growing process.  You have that moment of conception, followed by a  gestation period (for the most part nine months) followed by the birthing process.  From there you go from infant to toddler to young child to adolescent -- and as time passes you become an adult human experiencer.

    No part of this process can be skipped.

While a toddler  may immolate an adult … this still does not make him/her an adult … does it?  No, it does not.  Adolescents may think they are adults … and may very well behave and act in a more mature way than most adults … but the truth still remains … they are still adolescents!

 The stages of the Awakening parallels your human life during it's growing process in the exact same manner.   And like your human physical process … no steps can or will be skipped.

 Again, for emphasis -- keep in mind that your awakening process parallels your physical stages of life and all that goes along with it. 

• Conception
• Gestation
• Birth
• Infant - Toddler
• Young Child - Early Adolescence
• Late Adolescence - Early Adult
• Mid-Late Adulthood

In the following posts, we will be sharing information on the various stages of spiritually maturing.

Special Note

Please keep in mind that each stage of development is very important.  Though it may be frustrating for yourself and others, each stage must be worked through in order to gain the necessary foundation of your maturity.

You will find yourself annoyed by many whom you have out grown and as a result will find it necessary to cut them out of your life at some point of your awakening.

This is all part of the process.

For those of you who find yourself on the receiving end of being let go, don't take it personally.   Those who let you go have matured faster. This doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you.   It simply means you are going at your own individual pace.   There is nothing wrong with that.  There is nothing wrong with you.  Everyone goes at their own pace.


Keep In Mind ...

This is not a race of any kind!  You will reach maturity in your own divine timing!

Every single person is where they are suppose to be ... when they are suppose to be ... at the exact moment they are suppose to be -- Doing and acting as they are suppose to be!

For the short list of "symptoms" of the Awakening Process, and suggestions on how to work through the process,  you can find them by clicking HERE,  HERE,  HERE  and HERE 

*Disclaimer: ALWAYS check with a health care professional FIRST!  

SPECIAL NOTE: many health care professionals are  now using their own personal awakening experiences to help others going through the stages.  We applaud these brave individuals for boldly moving forward and making the necessary changes in how people are treated.

Excerpts from The ZEN of Duct Tape:  An Empress Is Born™

About Julia K. Cole

What can you expect from someone who considers Putting Reality Back Into Spirituality a personal calling? Straight forward answers that lead to life-changing experiences on a soul level!

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience. 

In the style of Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way. 

As a writer, Julia is a virtual powerhouse of creativity.  Among Julia's literary accomplishments is  the  Children of the Luminaries  trilogy;  Book One: The Coming Storm can be purchased by clicking Here.   

Book Two  of the trilogy is due out in the Fall of 2015 and Book Three will be available in 2016.  The long anticipated ZEN of Duct Tape:  An Empress Is Born will be out in 2016.  As well as the Teddy Mitchell Chronicles.

Julia has also contributed to several other publications including Brad Steiger's  Real Zombies, The Living Dead, and Creatures of the Apocalypse  Click HERE for the review; and Marie D. Jones' Destiny vs. Choice  Click HERE    

PLEASE NOTE:  All artwork, unless otherwise specified, are the property of the individual artists themselves. The author of these blogs claims no ownership of the original artwork, but only of the sig tags created using said artwork. Each sig tag shown on these blogs include the appropriate copyright information of the Artists and the unique licensure for use.

Reproduction and copying of said work without proper authority is strictly prohibited


Unless otherwise specified, ALL articles on this Blogger are the property of Julia K. Cole.  The ZEN of Duct Tape™, it's name, teachings, modalities, and all excerpts; the nicknames The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape™,  The Duct Tape Diva™; Putting Reality Back Into Spirituality™, Reality back into Spirituality™ are the property and trade marks of Julia K. Cole and are protected under Copy Right Laws both here in the USA and Around The World.  

The Gratitude Gap™

 The Gratitude Gap™ happens when we fail to express appreciation for the goodness in our lives.

The Gratitude Gap™  occurs when we show lack to no appreciation for the challenges, problems and pain that comes into our lives.

The Gratitude Gap™ takes place whenever we show a lack of appreciation.

* Lack of appreciation for things ... great or small;
* Lack of appreciation of the painful things;
* Lack of appreciation for anything and/or anyone we may dislike or causes us pain.


The Gratitude Gap™ isn't about liking or loving everything and everyone. It's about showing appreciation for the gifts EVERYONE and EVERYTHING brings into our lives. Situations, words and deeds that enrich us in ways we never believed possible. No matter how painless or how painful they may be.

Bottom line... The Gratitude Gap™ is about being thankful for every single opportunity to learn and to grow past our own short-comings.

Gratitude strengthens our emotional, mental and spiritual muscle. Whereas, The Gratitude Gap™ creates a weaken state within our selves on every level of being. When we have a Gratitude Gap, we are left vulnerable to the challenges that come our way.

By showing gratitude for any challenges, you build stronger 'muscles' that can help you get through the toughest situations.

No, it isn't easy being thankful for pain. No one said it would be. But the more you do it, during the times it is happening to you ... you will soon discover how smoother it is to get past those little annoyances that come your way.

You Don't Miss The Water 'Til The Well Runs Dry"

How quick we are to accept the good that comes our way. How quick we are to call it our blessing when everything is going smoothly.

How quickly we forget the priceless gift our painful experiences are.
 
Be honest with yourself. Where would you be without your painful experiences? What kind of person would you be in this moment ... without them?

Many believe they would have had a better and happier life if only ... if only there hadn't been so much pain -- so many hardships -- so many "road-blocks" in their lives.

What the majority fail to understand is this: Our hardships and pain help mold us and nourish us just as much as the goodness and the joy does.

As a race, human experiencers are wired to come into a true appreciation only when something and/or someone is no longer available or 'something' has been withheld. Sad, but true.

We have left many clues for ourselves to remind us of this. Clues that can be found through our 'sayings' ... such as 'the forbidden fruit' is more desirable, 'you don't miss the water 'til the well runs dry', 'the grass is always greener on the other side.' These are only a few ... can you name others?

In truth, there are people and situations that drive us absolutely insane! There are people in our lives we would love to see just disappear entirely. I have a list of those types of people myself! But if you were to step back and really see past the irritations, aggravations, annoyances and hardships ... I would be willing to bet that you would see how much you have learned from it all. How much you have grown as a person.

Take a few moments and see for yourself the valuable lessons these annoying situations and irritating people have brought into your life. Express your gratitude for the opportunities it gave you to grow up emotionally, mentally and most importantly... spiritually.

Communicate, Appreciate and Validate

Take a moment, each and every day, to Communicate your Appreciation for all those who have help you grow! No matter how insignificant you think/believe it is, no matter how painful it may be, Validate those (including situations) who have come into your life, who took the time and energy in giving you that much needed growth spurt!

Notice the difference in your own energy when you do this. See how much lighter you become. How much stronger you feel.

Take stock in how far you have come because of --and in spite of-- those people and situations.

In doing so ... you will close The Gratitude Gap™.

A Simple "Thank You" goes a LONG way! 

 But don't take my word for it! 

 Try it Your Self!

Your Spiritual Awakening/Ascension/Transition: PERSONAL NOTE FROM JULIA

RULE OF THUMB:   You don't call an electrician when you need your busted pipes fixed!  And you don't go to a psychic reader when you have a medical and/or mental, emotional health issue.  You also don't go to a psychic reader for legal advice either.  Major no-no's!

*~*~*~*

First of all, I am not a medical professional nor do I claim to be.    I do not nor have I nor will I ever provide a medical diagnosis.  The only thing medical I will ever say to you is ... 

SEE AN ACTUAL DOCTOR!  ASK YOUR DOCTOR!  

Or...

you Might wanna CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR!

Along with the above-mentioned advice, I will always add...TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR-SELF!  Or something along that line.  

*~*~*~*~*~*

Unless they are a trained and licensed medical professional, Any psychic reader,  spiritual healer and/or practitioner who gives you medical advice should be reported to the proper authorities IMMEDIATELY!

*~*~*

I cannot stress enough the importance of taking responsibility for YOUR Self!  Nor can I urge you enough or strongly enough to seek FIRST a trusted medical and/or mental health professional before seeking and/or putting into practice any type of holistic ritual.




If you have actual medical maladies, go to an ACTUAL DOCTOR!  And yes, I realize it is costly, as well as time consuming,  but get several different opinions if necessary; and as needed!  

Do all you know to do by conventional means before heading out to psychic reader-medium, channeler,  sooth sayer, holistic practitioner, Reiki healer, etc.

Any legitimate healer, psychic or otherwise, will tell you exactly what I am telling you here and now.  If they aren't advising you to seek conventional methods first...then RUN, not walk, but RUN to the nearest exit!    If anyone is claiming you don't need a doctor, that they can heal you through some spirit or such.  RUN to the nearest exit, call the authorities!  Stay clear of these frauds!

If they claim you have a curse and that is why you're sick, suffering from this, that or the other thing.   And for a nice amount of money, they can get rid of the curse and heal you of whatever illness that said curse caused.

RUN to the nearest exit! 

 Call the authorities!  

DO NOT DELAY!


~*~*~*~

While I am a firm believer that we can heal ourselves, I am also under the belief  that once it is manifested physically, it takes more than "thinking positively" to remove that energy.   

Keep in mind too,  Energy Healers only assist your natural abilities to heal.  They DO NOT Heal YOU!    And the assistance they provide is only providing a temporary relief.     

While there are those who might actually assist you in removing it altogether...the odds of you being 100% cured of any physical manifestation while still holding on to the same beliefs are extraordinarily high.   We're talking nil to none!

The only way you can remove the energies that has created and manifested physical ailments is TAKING RESPONSIBILITY for YOUR Self!  And you this by learning to work through the beliefs that got you into the physical manifestations of dis-ease  in the first damn place!   And too,  it may actually entail going to a conventional doctor and using conventional methods in addition and/or in connection with your spiritual healing.   

Whatever methods you use, taking Responsibility for YOUR Self is  priority  ONE for   EVERYONE!  Including any healer.   And anyone desiring to be healed!

*~*~*~*~*

 It has taken generations, many life times, to get where we are now.  Both in mind and spirit.  So it goes without saying that it may take a good long while--even a  few life times--before we finally give up the bullshit of hurting ourselves and each other.

*~*~*~*~*

I've been consciously going through the Ascension process for too many years to even count, and the one all encompassing truth I have gleaned from those years is our Awakening  ALL boils down to...

Taking Responsibility for Your SELF

THIS is the Number 1 part of Your Spiritual Awakening/Ascension/Transitional process.

The sooner you accept, acknowledge and embrace this fact--the easier your transition will be!

Take it from someone who's been there (many times)!  Did that (many, many times)!  And has actually moved on a bit!  (a wee bit! *LOL*)

Embrace ALL That You Are!
For YOU are ALL That There Is!

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience. 

In the style comparable to Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way!



Unless otherwise specified, ALL articles within this Blogger are the property of Julia K. Cole.   The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape™ and The Duct Tape Diva™ are all Trademarks of Julia K. Cole 

The ZEN Of Duct Tape and The Duct Tape Diva Productions belong to Julia K. Cole and all  herein are protected by U.S. and International Copy Right Laws.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED©

Forgiveness: Part 2 ~ Forgiving Self

When it comes to genuinely forgiving -- I fall short.  Way short!

I know this only because … I can rattle off the names of a half dozen people  who have gone out of their way to slander me, hurt me and my family in some way.   And not only that,   every once in a while -- I actually take a few minutes to envision these assholes  being trampled by a flock of 100 foot mutant chickens.   It puts a smile on my face!   Makes me giggle! 

Seriously -- who wouldn’t laugh at the thought of someone running from a gigantic chicken?


Don’t get me wrong -- I don’t spend too much time on these fantasies.   Those morons aren’t worth the time and energy.  But still … whenever I need a good laugh  … I just flip on that imagination switch and let those mutant chickens run rampant!

*~*~*

Entertaining thoughts such as these is what  EFT Practitioner Margaret Lynch refers to as “Negative Pleasures.”   According to Margaret, negative pleasures are one of the many ways we do battle with ourselves.  Granted,  while these negative pleasures do have their humorous side, they tend to keep us stuck  And being stuck  keeps us in “battle mode.”  Being in battle mode prevents us from living in freedom. 

As human experiencers -- living in freedom is our ultimate goal.

But how do you get past  being stuck in battle mode when the planet is over run by  the L.E.A. --League of Extraordinary Assholes?

Well it ain’t easy!  Then again … no one said it would be.  However,  we have at our disposal a wide range of tools,  methods and modalities  for  dealing with the hardcore members of the LEA.  One of which is EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) a.k.a. tapping.  

EFT is astoundingly helpful in releasing whatever unwanted and unneeded energies floating in and around our bodies.   However, when combined with other healing modalities, such as Ho’Oponopono, I have discovered that my  tapping  has an even more profound impact.

But don't just take my word for it -- try it out for yourself!

You can check out some of the free EFT sessions on You Tube with a  host of expert EFT Techs such as Margaret Lynch, Brad Yates, and Pamela Bruner.

*~*~*~*~*

Now when doing any type of  healing modality,  I always start with myself.  Reason being, like all of you, I carry around this guilt and shame for being a "secret member" of the L.E.A.  And too, I have a boat load of negative pleasures that I indulge in now and then.    While it does make me smile, I do have a bit of shame for visualizing someone’s demise.   So the very  first person who gets the healing  is me!

Why do I start with myself, you may ask?  Simple.  First of all,  on whole, we all tend to overlook our self when it comes to maintaining any level of health.  Be it spiritual, physical, emotional and/or mental.  We all tend to put ourselves last.     

Many years ago, I remember someone stating that we take better care of our vehicles than we do ourselves.  Not sure who originally said it -- but whoever it was they were one very observant cookie!

 Secondly, and most importantly,  forgiveness is really about Self anyways.  We are the ones who are holding on to the memories and experiences.  We are the ones living and reliving those episodes over and over again.   So it's only logical that we begin with Self!

In case of emergency ...
place the oxygen mask over your face FIRST!  

Then proceed to assist others!

If you ever traveled by airplane, you are familiar with these instructions given before take off.    These  same instructions hold true for any healing work!

Heal your Self -- FIRST!  

And ... The first steps to healing our Self begins with forgiveness of One's Self!

*~*~*~*~*

While forgiving others may prove difficult -- forgiving ourselves is a seemingly impossible and unreachable goal.  

There are endless reasons why we refuse to forgive ourselves.  Irregardless of the many reasons you can name -- it all comes down to one solitary belief … unworthiness. 

Unworthiness.  Worthlessness.  Low or non-existent Self-Worth.

Somewhere along the way … we were convinced that we are the most worthless beings on the face on  Planet Earth.  While the belief of unworthiness could have been triggered anywhere during the course of your life, chances are  it all stems from early childhood.   But only you can know for certain.  To find out, you (yes YOU) will have to take the time to literally dig through the huge piles of emotional bullshit to find the point of origin. 

It isn’t easy.  No one said it would be!  It will take time and patience to sift through all that crap.  And a lot of hankies! 

And folks … There are no short cuts to this process!  Trust me, if there was … I would have found them and used them-- a LONG time ago!

*~*~*

For me personally, my point of origin was easily detected.    The events compounding these beliefs of unworthiness is a very long list!   Trekking back in time, facing  the point of origin of my beliefs of unworthiness was heartbreaking.    But the more I went back, the more information I gleaned.  And the more information  I gleaned, the more my awareness expanded.  And the more my awareness expanded, the more my heart opened and allowed the forgiveness to flow more freely.

Coming  into the present -- I now can see with crystal clarity what my choices as a young child had set in motion.  And too, how The Universe, in it’s infinite wisdom, had begun to gently nudge me out of that mindset.

And how did it do this?

By placing in my path the same type of people, situations and experiences with the same exact messages of unworthiness!

*~*~*

I don’t know if you ever noticed this  -- but The Universe has this two by four to the side of the head method it implements!

Of course, it usually starts out with a ruler.   First it begins with a really subtle thump on the noggin.  If you get the lesson from that initial tap-- then you’re good to go! On to the next lesson!  Woo Hoo!!!   But ignore that little thump and the next thing you know … the ruler has been turned into a two by four … and before you have time to blink … BAM!  Right up side the head!  And you have no choice but pay attention to the lessons The Universe is providing!

Ever notice that?  Okay, maybe it’s just me then!  However, my point being … ignoring an issue -- any issue -- leads to  more of the same, each time it returns is more intense.  And to make matters worse -- ignoring issues tends to mount even more  feelings of unworthiness!   So before you know it -- you are caught in this vicious cycle of self-abuse.  Before too long you wind up  in a sea of utter despair.

As you  find yourself barely floating along--you manage to muster up enough strength to ask that all burning question … Why me?!!  Instead of throwing you a life preserver,  The Universe comes in with that two by four  and whacks you again and again! Each blow  harder than the last.

And it just keeps coming ...

Until …

You stop struggling!  Yell “UNCLE!” And proceed to forgiving yourself!

Yep!  The Universe is one helluva motivator -- ain’t it?   Unfortunately,  many view this process as cruel and unusual punishment.  They put all blame on The Universe!   Taking no responsibility for themselves.   Not really taking the time to understand and fully comprehend the way The Universe operates.   Which is … whatever you are in need of learning … The Universe supplies!  In abundance -- I might add!

 So if you are getting WHACKED upside the head … it is YOU who are doing it to YOU!

End of Story!

Now if you have any desire to place a cease and decease order on all the whacking upside the head … you will need to do one little thing.  And that is … genuinely, unconditionally, with love & compassion  -- forgive your … Self!

Yes!  It really is that simple!

The benefits of forgiving Self is infinite!  In fact, something truly marvelous happens when you genuinely forgive your Self!  All of which we will cover in Part 3 of this on-going blog series.

Until then …

Embrace ALL that you Are!
For you ARE … All That There Is!

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience. 

In the style comparable to Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way.  

PLEASE NOTE:  All artwork, unless otherwise specified, are the property of the individual artists themselves. The author of these blogs claims no ownership of the original artwork, but only of the sig tags created using said artwork. Each sig tag shown on these blogs include the appropriate copyright information of the Artists and the unique licensure for use.

Reproduction and copying of said work without proper authority is strictly prohibited

Embracing All That You are: Part 5

Facing your fears isn't easy.  Then again, no one said it would be! 

That has to be one of  the most grossly under-stated lines ... Ever!   And I speak from experience!

If you been following my blog for the last few months, you already know that one of my fears is standing out -- being seen and heard.  Hard to believe!  I know! But it's true!    However, I am one of these people who prefer to face their fears.  Okay, truthfully -- I face them after a few bouts of holding my breath, making myself sick,  running and hiding, ditching and dodging and all that stuff like that there!   But eventually, I do pull myself together and look my fear right in the eye. 

My fears of being seen and heard stems from my childhood and was compounded throughout the years through a rather interesting series of events.   To make a rather long story short -- each and every time I spoke up, made myself visible ... I was punished and attacked in some way.    This in turn has created a knee-jerk reaction to develop.   It's rather frustrating.  Not only for me -- but for my friends and family as well.  We all know I am very capable!  We all know that when confronted, I have no reservations in standing up for myself or for others.    But when it comes to really standing out -- to letting my light shine fully and brightly -- I will run for cover!

So in the spirit of facing my fears -- I made a conscious decision to follow through on two of my passions.  One was to  complete the books I started.  One of which I have!  Yippee!    The others are still in draft form.  Though they require some heavy duty editing ... I am very pleased to announce...  they are actually written!  Secondly,  to follow my love of entertaining by returning  to Blog Talk Radio.

Returning to doing a radio show was a huge step for me.  And I am not ashamed to say it -- I was terrified!  Literally scared out of my  mind!  Actually got sick two days before the show aired! 

Granted, I'm not new to the internet radio scene.  Far from it.  In fact, I had a weekly talk show on Blog Talk Radio called Namaste Beloved!  which  began airing  in the Spring of 2007.   Before that, I had spent six months as  a co-host on another internet show; and had been guest hosting on numerous other internet radio shows as well.  In short, I had become a "hot property" as far as internet radio shows go. 

During the years Namaste Beloved! was on the air ... it had grown into a very popular show. In fact, in less than a year, the number of listeners went from a humble 10 to over 300 per week.   Even now, the archives are receiving anywhere from 10-15 hits per day.

Now the question I'm sure running through everybody's mind right now is ... why did I quit?  The answer is simple really.  You see, as the show's popularity increased -- so did my fears of standing out in the crowd.     These fears were compounded by a host of incidents -- both on and off line.   Sufficient to say, it isn't any wonder I ran and hid.

Between 1998-2006, I was attending on average ... one funeral a week.   Not only was I dealing with the loss of family members and close friends,  I had two of my clients commit suicide -- 6 months apart from each other.  One of which had killed himself while on the telephone with me.  Then there was  dealing with a  former colleague who went about slandering me all over the internet--that was loads of fun (she says sarcastically).   Not to mention, my family was falling apart at the seams.  Then there was that  lunatic religious zealot of a mother who was constantly admonishing me for not serving her precious false god and terrorizing my children with her hideous tales of Armageddon.  Topping all this off  was the constant pain and agony of bone spurs and advance arthritis, and then getting severely ill. 

Yea, no stretch of the imagination needed here as to why I took off running like I did!

Interestingly enough , even as I was going through all that -- something deep inside of me kept  pushing forward.  But my fears of standing out -- being heard ... was overpowering me.  

Intellectually,  I knew that the only power these fears had was whatever I was giving it.  But how do you convince someone who is down on the floor in a fetal position (metaphorically speaking) that it's all going to be okay?  That everything they are experiencing is more of an illusion than actual reality? 

There isn't really anything you can say or do to convince someone of something they've already made up their minds about.  You can only be there to walk along side them -- bringing comfort when and where needed --lending a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear and a hand to hold --  all the while ... reassuring them ... that they are never alone!

For the most part, I didn't have that.  I was left all alone to deal with my heartache and suffering--my family and friends had all but abandoned me. With only my spirit family by my side, I dealt with my challenges and issues on my own.    All the while -- my spirit family kept urging me to step up and out -- reminding me that there were those in need of my assistance.

Their reminders, however, only seem to  perpetuate the argument of "The Why's."

Why does it have to be me?  Why should I be there for them, when  they wasn't anyone there for me?  Why should I be there for anyone else--what's the point?  Why do I have to be the one taking all the risks?  Why do I have to be the one that is strong?  Why do I have to be the one that gets hurt?  Why? Why? WHY???!!!!

The reply was always ... Why not? Followed by ... if not you -- then who?

Naturally, that little ego of mine had the answer and shouted ... there are a vast number of people all over the world with the same messages.  Nobody needs me to step up.  Those in need can get it elsewhere!  They don't need me to come out of hiding ... taking all the  risks ... taking all the chances of being attacked and hurt again!  Being abandoned.  They'll leave me as soon as they get what they want from me!  They always do!  They'll make fun of me! Call me crazy!  They have in the past!  And they will in the future!  They will give all the credit to someone else who is more knowledgeable! More popular! Leaving you without so much as a thank you!

My spirit companion Antari--  provided me and my little  ego with a counter viewpoint.  Following is an expert from that conversation.

Antari:  It is true that there are many who provide the same information you posses --however,  not everyone will  resonate with those particular individuals.  It is not disparaging these individuals in any way.  No, quite the contrary.   For you see Beloved, what you have forgotten is the one all encompassing truth ...  like attracts like.  

Meaning, there are those who will resonate with you and not others.  Therefore, you are being called upon to present these messages for those who are attracted to your unique energies. 


Julia:  But I don't want to get hurt again.  You have no idea how painful it is to be rejected, attacked and ignored.

Antari:  Question!  Which is greater?  The pain of being hurt by those who live in fear? Or the pain of regret of never helping another soul ... of never living up to your truths?

Julia:  The pain of regret.

Antari:  So by your own admission, the pains of regret of never helping others -- of never living up to your truths-- outweigh those pains of being hurt by those who live in fear?  Am I understanding this correctly?

Julia:  It's more complicated than that.

Antari:  A simple yes or no, Beloved. 

Julia:  Yes.  But  ...

Antari:  In essence, you fear regret of not living up to your truths more than facing the  pain and suffering at the hands of those who live in fear?  Is this correct?

 Julia:  Yes.  But  ... you don't seem to understand.  You're not here in the physical with a physical body.

Antari:  Ah! I see!  I am incapable of understanding greater truths because I am not a physical being?  

Julia:  Well ... yea!

Antari:  With that being said, I am compelled to ask ... what is your excuse?

Julia:  *sigh*

Antari: You are most welcome Beloved!

 *~*~*~*~*

Like so many of you,  I had covered up that one particular fear of regret with  other fears I believed to be more important.  Once broken down -- those other fears only proved to be distractions.  A literal cover up to what was far more important to me.  The voice that was trying so hard to be heard.  The  "divine" nudging that was so desperately urging me to face the true fear that dwells deep within.  The fear  of not living up to my truths!  The fear Of not being ME!

So ... In closing ... I pose the question to you ... which is your greater fear? 

(Excerpts from The ZEN of Duct Tape: An Empress I Born! )

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience. 

In the style of Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way. 

PLEASE NOTE:  All artwork, unless otherwise specified, are the property of the individual artists themselves. The author of these blogs claims no ownership of the original artwork, but only of the sig tags created using said artwork. Each sig tag shown on these blogs include the appropriate copyright information of the Artists and the unique licensure for use.

Reproduction and copying of said work without proper authority is strictly prohibited

Embracing All That You Are: Part 4

"...The greatest danger facing us is ourselves, and irrational fear of the unknown. But there's no such thing as 'the unknown,' only things temporarily hidden, temporarily not understood."   - Captain Kirk, Star Trek

*~*~*~*

 As more and more of the human race awaken from their long soul slumber, we all begin to experience back to back shifts of consciousness.

Long gone are the days when those shifts occurred once every few months or years!

Now it's literally every other day! 

As those shifts occur -- we collectively have this knee-jerk reaction  to pull back and go into hiding.  And there's a reason for that.

 As most of you are aware, Ego sees change--any change-- as a threat!

Quick to respond, Ego's first reaction is to talk you into becoming invisible, so as to not be seen by the  perceived enemy.   And if Ego can't get you to comply -- then it begins using guilt, shame, and other various fears. It sets out to  use whatever and whomever is available  to enhance those feelings.  All to force you to cooperate.

On the off chance you do manage to thwart it's maneuvers  through some kind of distraction or by simply ignoring it, you have only a short time before Ego returns for more of the same!

while it may bring you a reprieve -- Ignoring it -- Distracting your attention from it --  are all temporary fixes!  It doesn't resolve anything.   Not really.

Or haven't you noticed that?

A skillful opportunist, Ego will patiently wait for you to be off your guard and apply its tactics again and again and again. Each return-- stronger than before.

So bottom line?  Ignoring or distracting one's self from these feelings -- not a good idea!

*~*~*

In my conversations with my spirit companion Antari, he presented me with the following analogy:

Ego is nothing more than a child who has been left in charge of taking care,  and being given possession of, everything you call your Self.

Now, imagine an actual small child being being put in charge of a room full of  toys and food!  Now imagine the child's reaction if only one or two things are taken from that room?   Now what do you suppose  that child would do in that situation?

Angry, the child throws a major temper tantrum!  Threats ensue, followed by attempts of guilt & shame!

What happens when you ignore the child's fits of anger?  Or attempt to distract it?

Now notice what occurs when you  ...  Firmly, lovingly and patiently reassure the child that it still has more than enough to take care of.  

Take note of what happens when you  tell the child how proud and grateful you are for how brave and wonderful they have been--and continue to be.  Letting the child know what a fantastic job it has done taking care of so much -- for so long!  And all by themselves!

Notice how the child's face lights up!  Beaming with pride!

Now see what takes place when you remind the child, that while you still need them -- will always need them while you're here -- you now need to take some of that stuff out of the room.  Remind them they are still responsible for keeping things safe here in this room.  How you need them to keep it safe!  That no one else can do that job ... but them!  Then watch their reaction.

Now ... Hug that child!  Tell that child how much you love and appreciate them.  And watch the child's reaction.  Tell them how sorry you are for placing such huge responsibilities on it's tiny shoulders.  Tell the child how sorry you are for ignoring it for so long -- for trying to cover it's demands over with other things or ignoring it altogether.  Ask the child for forgiveness as you hold them tight in your arms.    

See what happens?

Like a real child, Ego needs love and reassurance.  It requires--and demands-- acknowledgement, acceptance and appreciation.   And like a real child -- it will perceive you and your actions as a threat if you ignore it or try to distract it as you snatch it's things away.

(Excerpts from The ZEN of Duct Tape: An Empress Is Born)

*~*~*~*

The on-going mindset to distract, eradicate and ignore, not only our own ego, but any emotions we have deemed negative,  has only served to perpetuate a vicious cycle of frustration and aggravation with seemingly no end in sight.

 Aren't you a little tired of that?  Aren't you ready to try something that will get you off that treadmill of perpetual madness?

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing, in the same way -- expecting different results! 

Are you ready to be sane?  Are you prepared to jump off that endless treadmill of doing the same thing -- in the same way .... never realizing your full potential?

Are you ready to Embrace All That You Are?

*~*~*~*

As we continue to expand our awakened state and grow into maturity, many of us are slowly discovering the importance of   Embracing All That You Are.

Embracing All That You Are (which includes your Ego, and all those emotions it brings) allows all aspects of our true Self to form into one harmonious blend of energies.  

 It's hard (in the beginning).  No one said it would be easy!

And it can be pretty damn scary -- at first!   But at the same time ... very exciting!

Embrace ALL That You Are!

For YOU are ALL that there is!

Known as The Empress of the Known & Unknown Universes™ and The Diva of Duct Tape, Julia has made it her personal mission to put Reality back into Spirituality™. Julia sets out to assist people in expanding their conscious awareness through her rather unique and personal take on the human experience.  

In the style of Erma Bombeck, Julia utilizes her own brand of humor and down to earth demeanor to get her messages across in an all so delightful way. 

PLEASE NOTE:  All artwork, unless otherwise specified, are the property of the individual artists themselves. The author of these blogs claims no ownership of the original artwork, but only of the sig tags created using said artwork. Each sig tag shown on these blogs include the appropriate copyright information of the Artists and the unique licensure for use.

Reproduction and copying of said work without proper authority is strictly prohibited

I Believe! (An Open Letter to Santa)

Dearest Santa,

When I was a child, I wasn’t allowed to openly acknowledge you.  I grew up in a home that didn’t believe in you, in Christmas or anything magical.  But I want you to know (though I feel you always did) that I believed.

I believed despite what my mother told me.  And I believed in spite of what my older brothers and sisters said.  I believed.  No matter what the other children said with respect to your existence.  I believed.

Though I was never allowed to say it out loud ... I Believed!

After I became an adult and left home, I was finally free to express my beliefs out in the open.   I still meet with all sorts of nay sayers who shout “There is no Santa!“  

But Santa … I have to tell you … no matter the opposition … there is no greater feeling than being able to say those two little words … I Believe!  And despite, and in spite of, the nay sayers -- I said it!  And I continue to say it!  I BELIEVE!

Santa, I know Jesus wasn’t born on December 25th   … but what does it matter?  I fail to understand why it is such a bad thing to honor the Christ -- if only once a year.    I, and many others like myself,  honor Him each and every day of the year.    But what difference does it make what day Jesus was born if … if …it brings many more to honor him.  If only just for that day?   And Santa, whose to say that one day doesn’t motivate someone to do it more than just on Christmas? I believe it does! 

Santa, I know the Christmas Tree isn’t a Christian thing.  But what does that matter?  It’s beautiful!  And it is a wonderful reminder of so many things.   

For me personally … The lights represent each and every person  who shares their love to others.  These are the People who live by the words Jesus exclaimed “Let your light shine bright among men!” 

The tinsel, are the folks who are not yet ready to let their light shine so bright, but still show love in some way on some level.   And their love is reflected off their shiny faces -- just like the lights reflect off the silvery and gold strips on the tree.

Each ornament reminds us of those we love, have loved,  those we yet to love, and most importantly … those we don’t even know, but love just the same.

The Angel I put at the top of my tree reminds me that our Beloved and most Divine Creators are watching over us--that They have never forgotten us (nor will They Ever!).  It is also a reminder that They have put in position myriads of helpers for us while we are here on Earth.

And Santa … I know you are the icon  of Giving!   But you are so much more … aren’t you?  Yes, you my dear, are the symbol of courage, love, happiness, joy and generosity.    Attributes each of us have -- but rarely express to others … and rarer still … to our selves.    Many have forgotten that it's not you the person, but what you represent that makes you so grand, and why it is so important to never forget!

Santa, I know ... and I believe ... The Magic of Christmas is the one time of year when people get the chance to collectively remember that Love --That generosity --That courage--That Happiness & Joy.    Some do, but then forget the next day.  Some scoff Christmas, saying it is nothing but a scam … so they miss out on the messages yet again.  But Santa, there are those of us who do Believe in the Magic of Christmas!   And we carry it with us through out the year.

I know Santa,  that Christmas is really an ancient custom called Saturnalia.  But I also know that in these modern times, just like in times of old,  we are given on this one day,  the opportunity to see from the "other's point of view."  Christians, Pagans, Buddhists, Jews, Muslims, all the other religions ... and even atheists too.  If only we believe ... we can take that one day and see from another's point of view!  And through this ... learn and grow ... and remember the Love we are.


For these reasons, and so many more,  is why I believe Santa!  This is why I have always believed!  And I promise you, will continue to believe no matter what! 

Santa, I remember Jesus saying to"be like the little children".  I know he was trying to tell us all to see the wonderments and splendors of all creation.   To see through the eyes of a child is to see the world for the very first time.  How truly splendid it is!  How magical it all is!  To be free to  love and be In Joy without inhibitions!   

And I do that myself Santa!   And I know others do as well.   Sadly, the majority of this world have gone from being child-like to childish.  Constantly fighting and quarreling amongst one another.   Santa,  they lost their magic.    They don’t believe -- and now they are miserable. 

Santa, these folks have convinced themselves into thinking that now we're all grown up, we don’t have time to believe or we shouldn't believe because it's just for kids or it's stupid!    They don’t believe in you Santa.  They don’t believe in Jesus. Why some even go as far as saying there are no Divine Creators!  No wonder they're so miserable!  They have nothing to remind them of the Love and the Joy.  So it isn't any mystery why they're so angry all the time!

I know Santa that if they could get back their magic -- become a child again ... they would remember!  They too would believe!  And they would be so much happier!  I Believe this Santa!  I really and truly do!

Santa, I just wanted you to know that me and others are doing our best to help these people remember.   We are doing all we can to remind them of the Love and the Joy that is theirs, every day of the week.   And not just at Christmas time.   Me and all the others out there, we are doing all we know to help these souls to remember that Love takes on all sorts of shapes and forms.  That it comes in many ways, through many people and in different venues. Each and every single day of the year!

That the Spirit of Christmas is 24 hours a day -- 7 Days a Week!  If only They Believe!



But some times, I just get really fed up! They are a stubborn lot -- these unbelievers!

But I promise!  I will not give up!  I will continue my mission to help others remember!  To help them regain their sense of child-like wonder! 

I just wanted you to know Santa -- you, Jesus and our Divine Creators are  not alone nor are you ever forgotten!  And that no matter what …

I Believe!  Yes! I Do!


With much Love …