Spiritual Lessons Learned by a Missionary

            Oddly enough, the first time I saw her I didn’t see her face.  All I could see were her feet.  They were dirty, no, filthy but tanned by the Guatemalan sun.  Her shoes were torn, weathered and tattered at the sole.  The big toe on her left foot touched the soil instead of the sole.  She was dressed in the traditional indigenous dress; a hand-woven skirt and a detailed blouse.  It too was weathered and likely worn by several women before her.  She had long brown hair, bright eyes and a crooked smile.  Through the Guatemalan grime of the remote village, she was a loveable and beautiful 9-year-old girl.  I could tell she was well liked as 3 other similarly dressed children huddled close to her as she sheltered them from the rain.

            We were on site to where we were building a home for a poverty stricken family.  Very poor indeed, and like others in the community very much in need.  Our task for the afternoon was to unload the pre-built walls and prepare to assemble them into a house.  The walls were about 4’x8’ and very heavy.  We had just unloaded the first of two loads of walls when I saw her.

            She was kind but resistant when I approached her.  No English, and me ‘poquito’ Spanish.  I pointed to her feet and kneeled in front of her to look closer.  She wasn’t embarrassed but curious, as were the other children who had begun to gather to take a look.  I used my hands and finger stretch to estimate a shoe size – from tip of thumb to tip of pinky. 

            While I was kneeling, I noticed the state of the other children’s feet.  Warts.  Corns.  Curling toenails.  Filth.  Shoes disintegrating and literally rotting off of their feet.  Shoes 3 sizes too small.  Toes hanging over the edge of sandals.  Entire soles missing.  Holes in rubber boots.

            The children showed me their feet and I took estimated measurements, certain we had children’s shoes back at the teams home base.

            Fortunately, we had a pair of girls shoes that were ‘tip of thumb to tip of pinky’ in size as well as other children’s shoes.  I loaded a duffle bag and took it with us as we made our way back to the site with the second load of walls for the build a home project.

            The children greeted us and by the time we had returned, word had spread and more children arrived to show us their feet.  I found my brown haired and brown-eyed girl.  She was speaking in Spanish, shaking her head and waving her finger “NO!” to me.  I was shocked.  I sat back on my heels and looked at her dumbfounded.  Then I understood.  She pointed to her friend’s feet and then pointed to the shoes as if to say “No, give those shoes to my friend.  She needs them more.”  Upon inspection, indeed her friend needed shoes but what was I to do?  I found myself judging whose shoes were worse.  I had only one pair of shoes, and two needy girls.  Both girls were wearing equally atrocious shoes.  I looked up at my friend and shook my head “NO.”  I held my hand to my heart as I said in plain English, “God wants good blessings in your life.  These shoes are for you.  You are deserving of these shoes and they are a token of God’s love for you.  You are worthy.  I’m giving these shoes to you.” 

            It amazes me when God speaks through the heart, language doesn’t exist.  I knew she understood as the tears rolled down her dirty cheeks.  She allowed me to slip off her old shoes and fit her with the new.  I tied the laces slowly so she could see how it was done.  I suspected that she had never worn tie-ups before.  Before she walked away with her friend she hugged me and said, “Gracias.”  I never asked her name.

           

Bombarded by other children and more needs, we tended to as many as we could until we ran out of shoes.  It is difficult, heartbreaking and unbearably painful with guilt to drive away without serving them all.

            It was 3 days later when I returned to the same remote village.  I was busy with the team finishing the details on the build a home project when I felt her touch my arm and then take my hand.   I let her lead me just a few steps away from the worksite and she began to tie a hand-woven friendship bracelet on my wrist.  It was likely made from left over threads from a project that her mother was weaving, but it was beautiful.  She told me in Spanish “I made this for you.  God Bless You.”  When the heart speaks.

“Comma se yama?”

“Soulme”

“Gracias.”

We hugged.  Not like a stranger hug, but a hug that was deep, like holding on to a lifeline.  It was sincere, desperate and full of love.  I’ve never been hugged like that in all my life.

            I discovered through a translator that Soulme was one of 4 children.  The middle two children go to school and Soulme stays home with the youngest as mom and dad work the fields.  She cares for the children; always putting others needs ahead of her own.  Soulme has never had anything new or anything just for her.  She is reliable, trustworthy and responsible often helping other children in the community that are left home alone to fend for themselves when mom and dad go off to work.

            Soulme taught me many things that day.  She showed me how to be in the present moment to look around and assess others needs.  She showed me sacrifice, being willing to give at the expense of herself.  She showed me surrender by accepting God’s gift of shoes.  She showed me compassion and love for others completely and selflessly.

            The greatest gift that Soulme gave me wasn’t the bracelet believe it or not.  It wasn’t even in the act of giving the bracelet, or the deepest hug.  Her gift was in the making of the bracelet.  Her intention of showing God’s love for me.  She used what little she had and wove each stitch with her smile, compassion, her faith and God’s love.

            I’m sure that Soulme’s life has shifted, not only because she can step in comfort, but also because she knows that she steps with God and is deserving of His love.  Through Soulme, what I know to be true is this:  God loves me.  

Thank you Soulme for sharing the greatest gift of all.

Blessings, 

Juli

Spiritual Quest - Tuesday & Wednesday

Tuesday and Wednesday on our Spiritual Quest were a bit of a blur.  I was there, but not really there.  I spent close to 6 hours each of these days deep inside my connection with Source.  I spent time in my journal, wrote page after page, and artistically crafted the "tools" that will go with my book that is coming to life. As much as I would like to share what transpired in these days, I cannot...yet... as those words will be a large part of this channeled guide and tool for balancing our energy centers and reconnecting with our Soul or Source.  In fact, I was so engrossed in that connection that no one else was around, there was nothing that disturbed me, even when Courtney tried to sit next to me and said that she fell off of the log.  I didn't even know she was there.  A Spiritual Musician spontaneously came and played for the group...didn't hear it, see it...I really can't explain that unique sense of connection, focus and purpose. So, for those of you who know me, know that finding words usually isn't a problem, but here and now I am at a loss...but that has lead me down a really interesting conscious path.

I am currently creating a Mission Statement, and although I am fully aware that our statements  may shift or change through different periods in our lives, I am seeking to develop a Mission Statement that conveys my core principles at this time.  I feel as though this is an important step in the development of myself and in the creation of this guidebook.  Almost to the stage of seeking an editor and publisher...I feel that I need to really have myself "pegged" with a Mission Statement, biography and a sense of identity or brand - to ensure that through the next phase of this process, the suggestions, criticisms and editing doesn't stray from the purpose of the guidebook and honors the "channeled messages" be kept intact.  The thing is though, that I am really no different than I have always been, but never before have I been so keenly aware as to how I interface with the world around me.  I have my own perception and experience of how I interact with others, but is that how you see me?  Does how I think I interface with the world draw similarities with how you interpret how I interface with the world?  I realize that what I am asking is severely risky, but I am fully prepared for your responses.  So, let me have it - if you feel compelled to be a part of my journey in fortifying my personal Mission Statement, have insight or suggestions please have the courage to comment or contact me.

Looking forward to your assistance in my journey,

Juli

Spiritual Quest - Monday Afternoon

An excerpt from my journal at Red Rock Crossing:

"Walking along Oak Creek Trail, I began to feel hot, even on this cool day.  As the energy increases, so does my body temperature.  The magnificent, clear spring water gushes by, soothing the edges of the pristine red rock.  An incredible backdrop of Cathedral Rock stretches up to the sky and it is apparent that earth, air, fire and water are all connected into one magnificent SOURCE.  Floating high above on the cliff is a magnificent boulder with a little tumble weed growing upon it.  It represents to me the perfect balance - teetering there, poised to fall, poised to remain in center.  Life is much like this boulder - staying balanced between earth and heaven, while maintaining composure and a pristine example of grace, humbleness and compassion.  This particular place where I sit reflects ancient goddess energy - Divine Feminine.  Not "prissy" energy, but a powerful presence of care, warmth like a mothers embrace and a true sense of Being alive."

"Embracing life like you would a lover will surely bring you such happiness.  When you commit to life through the power of manifestation by taking an idea and focusing your energy upon it, you commit to its arrival in your life.  Commitment is the key, especially for those that are 'lost' or looking for a way.  Encourage them to pick one thing big or small and focus their energy on it - not resources, but energy - thoughts, intentions and then wait for it to appear in their lives.  All it takes is one little commitment for life to transform.  Embrace life, by embracing this concept and watch the little miracles unfold. 

Often as women, as healers, you lose sight of your own power and balance of it in your lives.  You start to worry about money, resources and all the stuff that appears important to your human-ness.  You can achieve the balance you so desire by committing to your energy, thoughts and intentions and sharing the focus on 'resources' with the SOURCE that is you.  For you are in essence Source too.  Believe this, implement this and Balance will surely grace your life."

Loving You,   

Quan Yin

As women it is so important to find the balance; to share some of that energy that we put on the "resources" and stuff in our lives - share that energy with self by putting the focus inward.  Life is really quite simple - it is all the human boundaries, ideals and circumstances that complicate it.  Let's all simplify, simplify, simplify...and find that balance again.

Much, much love,
Juli

Spiritual Quest - Monday

Excerpt from my journal entry at the Airport Vortex:

"The sensation settled right into my heart and solar plexus immediately with a release of tears.  Such a strong warm sensation, just like a father's embrace.  This vortex is of masculine energy and most definitely feels male.  I sat on a tree at the top vista for the initial intro to the energy and have now moved down the cliff to a severely twisted juniper tree.  Others have left stones to mark their imprint and appreciation here.  You can't help but believe in God and Universal Energy sitting here."

"The ripples in the rock before you are like the ripples in your soul.  One thought, one saying can create an influencing ripple effect on the entire Soul.  You are reflecting, reversing the negative ripples that have patterned you to submitting to submission and adhering to man made authority.  The only authority that applies in the grand scheme of things is your inner authority and intention.  If in your heart you believe to be acting in your higher selves best interest, that is the only confirmation you need.  YOU are the power of YOU!  All that has been done or said in the past is now negated - rippled free.  Those things that have previously scarred you are now healed.  Feel your soul now smooth, connected and powerful - lovingly assertive - your life is about you.  When you do the work, you affect the world around you and in those moments you connect with the global collective consciousness with positive intentions.  The collective consciousness implores you to participate by opening your heart and connecting with others with the learnings from your ripples.  Teach, coach, speak your truths that you come to understand through this collective consciousness.  Ask the questions that will encourage others to self-discover.  Those that came with you are those that will be opening your appropriate chakras to balance and teach you to surrender the submissiveness. 

Be open to this process and encourage both yourself and your friends to cut their cords every day so as not to ripple your souls - keep this energy today INTACT.  You have all shown incredible self-respect by joining us here today, in this vortex.  Imprinted now, you can reconnect to this energy anytime, as you carry it with you forever.  Thanks be to God.  Thanks be to Divinity.   Thanks be to You.  -Ashanti"

Although, this message, divinely channeled, pertains to those that were on the Quest with me, most elements do pertain to you too.  Our ripples are all apparent, and needed to help us reflect and dig deeper into the soul.  I trust that within Ashanti's message, you too will find both clarity and understanding.

Blessings,
Juli

Spiritual Quest

As some of you know, last week I, along with friends, ventured to Sedona, Arizona on a Spiritual Quest.  Each day was different and uniquely fantastic in its own way.  I want to thank Venesa, Courtney, Dot and my Mom for their love and support and for their courage to engage their Spirit and Soul in a way that was forever transformative.

Each day was spent with 2-6 hours in meditation.  It was for the most part, a quiet quest.  While in meditation, several messages were channeled, some that I will be sharing here over the next few days, and some that will be expressed in my upcoming book.

Thank you for you support, love and kindness, and I trust that the messages that follow will benefit you in some way.

Much, much love,

Juli

New Courage Circle

Hello friends!


We are excited to announce that we will be starting a new Meditation Circle in January. We have been working with a fabulous book and card set called “Courage to Love Yourself” by local author, teacher, healer, Janice Mae Parviainen. In our weekly circles we will be learning new and exciting tools that will enable us to relax, rejuvenate and pamper our souls. These are tools that we can use to help ourselves get focused, tuned-in and nourished. These are tools that you will be able to use and teach your family, friends and others that you love. Depending on Spirit, and the energy of the group, some of the tools we will learn include:

• Chakra balancing

• Breathing and relaxation techniques

• Meditation

• Aura reading and cleansing

• Automatic writing

• Oracle card layouts, readings for self and others

• Intuitive Peer Coaching

• Journaling

• Channelling (being open to Spirit, Spirit Guides, Deceased Loved Ones, Angels etc.)

The Circle will be from 7:30-9ish on the following Tuesday evenings, here at Therapeutic Grace:

January 4

January 11

January 18

January 25

February 1

February 8

February 15

February 22

March 1

March 8

I am pleased to be partnering with a fellow Circle Master, Tracey Hutchinson for this Meditation Circle. We will be co-facilitating each week which will allow for more time processing, coaching and one-on-one time building your intuition. The cost of this 10 week session, includes your own Courage to Love Yourself book, deck of cards and personal journals and is being offered to you at an introductory rate of only $200. (Comparable cost for a course similar to this would be $350 plus materials). The group will be limited to 6 participants to ensure a private intimate setting. Payment is typically due upon the first session, however due to the time of year, alternate payment arrangements can be made upon request.

We look forward to having you join us in this awesome “Courage Circle” – if it is personal development, intuitive development, or just me time that you are looking for we are certain that you will find it with us!

Space is limited, please respond as soon as possible to ensure your spot ! (If you are considering this Circle as a Christmas Present, you can arrange to pick up the materials prior to Christmas!)



Blessings,

Juli Conard-Myers

www.therapeuticgrace.com

info@therapeuticgrace.com

Get Out of Your Head!

"I have ruts.  Ruts are common, unimaginative, and oh so boring.  I know because I have spent time in them.  Actually, I even took up emotional residence in a couple.  To make them more comfortable, I even decorated them.  I adorned the walls with excuses:"I can't", "I tried", and "I don't wanna".  Those are just a few of the plagues, I mean plaques that I hung in my ruts."  ~Patsy Clairmont

This is a quote that a dear friend shared with me this morning.  Ruts, ruts and more ruts...something that we can all relate to. 

The thing with ruts, is that they are just in our head.  I mean let's think about it for a minute.  If our thoughts create our reality, and thoughts can literally become things, then if we are thinking we are in a rut, or feeling like we are in a rut...guess what?  We are!  So, it is simple; to get out of our ruts, we have to get out of our heads.  We need to STOP thinking ruts and START thinking flight!

Now, you are probably sitting there, reading this, saying "If only it were that simple..."  or "I have been thinking positively and trying to manifest and nothing is happening yet..." - I am here to tell you that it is that simple and that there are a few other important tools that we can use to help us stay the course, stay focused and not get discouraged.

Janice Mae Parviainen teaches us in "A Courage to Love Yourself" that "Things just are.  They just seem different from what you expected them to be."  You see, we often hold positive intentions, and positive thoughts, but we attach expectations to them, sometimes even unknowingly.  These expectations often hold us in the pattern of how we used to be, in exactly the same ways that we are trying to change or release from our lives.  So, the question now becomes, how do we identify those expectations so that we can release them?

We have to be willing to actively participate in what I call, admission medicine.  We need to honestly look at what we are trying to manifest, discover if we have an ulterior motive, and visualize what we think it will look like if we already had it in our lives.  We need to meditate on it, pray on it, and hold the positive intention that whatever the Universe brings us is exactly what we need.  Once we have identified what is holding us back, leaving us feeling stuck in a rut, we can release it.  And how do we do that?  Some prefer journaling, some like to talk about it, some like to do a ceremonial release.  For me, I like to acknowledge it, and change how I am currently handling it.  Because, there are no right answers here.  If we have a pattern in our life that is tying us to the past, and we recognize that how we have been reacting by having that in our life isn't working, and we change it, the pattern changes.  And as long as we hold the intention of making a change that is in our best interest, our pattern will change.  Let me give you a personal example.

As you know, this last year has been chaotic.  All in good ways.  Abundant in community volunteer work, international mission work, local church activities, family life, and my career, life brought forward a spiritual rut that I fell into.  Aware of my situation as it was happening, I could see that my life was significantly out of balance.  I was giving 80% and getting 20%...and when you give that much and only allowing yourself to receive a little your spiritual tank can run dry in a hurry.  I have been running on empty for a months now.  And in a small town, once you volunteer to do something once, you are in for life - you know what I mean?  There have been expectations from others and self to continue being and doing at the same pace as I always have done.  And I know that I cannot do that, on this empty tank.  I mean, 36 hours after I had a baby, I was involved with interviewing a potential hire for the ministerial position that was available at church...who does that?  Most women aren't even out of the hospital...and here I am, trucking off to conduct a meeting mere hours after delivering my beautiful Faith-Anna.  Do you think I have been living in a way that strives to meet all those expectations? 

So, what have I done to pull myself out of my spiritual rut?  I released virtually all of the committments that I have had over the last 3 years.  I kept only the things that are filling my spiritual tank.  I know it sounds extreme, but I had reflected on it for 6 months, and it was time for action, so I decided to change my pattern, change my thought process and voila!  Lighter....emotionally lighter...spiritually lighter...(actively working on the physically lighter!)...and I feel good about myself and where I am in my life.  I have made room for the things that are important in the here and now.  Everyday, I can feel my passion and my spiritual spark getting brighter and can feel my tank getting filled.

I believe that we co-create our own reality.  Our thoughts become our reality.  If we think we are in a rut, we are.  Choose to NOT think you are in a rut.  Choose to do something...anything really.  Every time we change, our reality changes.  And when our intentions and dreams finally come to fruition they will be absolutely phenomenal...beyond what we could have expected!  I couldn't have expected to feel today what I feel...releasing my pattern (volunteer addict) and making changes has resulted in a very pleasant surprise!

Be patient and trusting friends.  Your rut is only in your head.  Stop "trying" and just do - something, anything!  Stop with the "cannots" because you can!  Have the courage to face your rut and get out of your head...you won't regret it! 

Your thoughts are already creating your reality!

Consider that.

Juli