My own words stared me in the face tauntingly. Feeling quite frustrated of late, I had (yes, I said “had!”) to take pause and yesterday, after an intense but beautiful weekend of service, I took the day off and prayed.
As I formed the 500 prayer ties (a Lakota way of praying) I noticed some interesting things. One, I noticed how challenging it was to “stay in my prayer.” I imagine over the course of the five or six hours I probably found myself in a distracting thought thousands of times (no exaggeration), or found myself tempted to turn on my computer and begin to engage in another behavior that I deemed as “productive.”
As I prayed, I felt old things coming up (this is expected) and at one point, even called my good friend Lorraine Cohen for a little perspective.
She dosed me with some love and during our conversation and a meditation she lead, I observed two important things.
First, I observed an old thought pattern that sounds like, “It’s not fair!” Going back to early childhood, I could see how the pattern was resurfacing in some of the frustration I’ve been feeling towards myself and my own life path. The other was the level of frustration I was feeling about some of the ways I serve…and wish to serve more, but not seeing the results in the ways I truly desire. At one point I appeared to myself, and spoke two statements, both things I have said in previous interviews or articles.
My own words…“If You’re Frustrated….it could be a Purpose Issue,” caused me to reflect upon the layers of purpose, including passions and authentic expressions.
The deeper I went, the more frustrated I got. What I am dancing with today is related not so much related to the question “What is My Purpose?” Rather, it is around the question, “What are the most authentic expressions of my purpose?” and, “how and with whom am I to serve?”
Truth be told, the last year and a half has been challenging. A move to another state, along with changes in the economy, and a few “disappointments” have not been entirely easy. I’ve surrendered a lot and have also initiated and accepted some life changing commitments on my spiritual path that I knew would kick up some stuff that had the potential to bust me wide open.
Divine Discontent
I’ve long said, “The Universe makes it impossible to stay the same.” We receive nudges in all sorts of ways, sometimes through synchronicity sometimes through inspiration, and sometimes through what I call Divine Discontent.
I think that many of us are feeling Divine discontent. We see a potential that seems just outside of our grasp. We’re busy, often out of balance, and the results of our efforts are not always what we imagine – or hoped for.
A few years ago, during an interview and in a few articles, I said and wrote, “Divine discontent is a sign of the soul unexpressed.” As much as it is uncomfortable, I really do believe these moments to be stunningly important and ultimately very revealing – if we can stay present and not distract ourselves.
Fear of change – or what we might find out during these important times of contemplation can keep us from receiving the guidance that will lead us to a greater expression of soul. Impatience can be a sign of a lack of faith. It can also, as my good friend Kimberly Marooney recently reminded me during a mastermind group, be evidence that the Universe is lining things up – and indicating that the energies of great transformation are gathering for big changes (and prayers answered) that are just around the corner.
Transformation Isn’t Always Easy (or so it appears)
This weekend, we had an opportunity to show up for a few people who were really struggling. Both were suffering from outcomes related to not following their intuition. Both situations were, admittedly, shocking (and Divinely perfect) examples of what happens when we step out of our center and thus compromise who we know ourselves to be.
Healing is happening, but not entirely easy or comfortable. Time is needed. Self forgiveness is critical. The pain is real. Compassion for self and others is necessary. Some changes in outlook and behavior are imperative. Healing is a process and doesn’t always fit our desired timeframes. Divine timing and order rules…whether we resist it or not! The most important lesson for me this weekend was to be open to the ways Spirit wants me to serve because it may be very different than what I had in mind! In surrendering to what showed up, we opened for some amazing magic that we could not have orchestrated ourselves!
Go Within…or Go Without
As I prayed yesterday, I acknowledged that although I am solid in my purpose, I sense changes to the expressions of that purpose. Even opening to this question, and the thought of receiving the answers that will follow, sparked some fear.
What if I’m told to completely change everything? What if I need to acknowledge that some things are not working? What if the dreams and projects I am working on are not aligned with my soul path and what is being asked of me right now, today?
The very things I believe I need right now are things that are not in my direct control or influence. Some of my most treasured and healing spiritual practices rely on other people. The ceremonies that nurture me the most have been unavailable to me. The priorities of family and work compete with timing of things that I simply need to surrender, trust and open to a natural unfolding. And, when I prayed and asked “what is mine to do?” I didn’t really receive clarity as much as I received more confusion.
And…it is all OK
I do possess an unwavering faith and trust in Divine unfolding. I know that there are times when surrendering to Divine Discontent and asking the big questions, reveals amazing guidance. A letting go is required. I have some attachments; that is clear. I may even be in resistance to some necessary changes. And, it is all OK, will be OK and my faith says… it is all working towards Divine perfection, even when it is uncomfortable!
God is Quite the Jokester!
It does not escape me that Divine Timing and Order are working in my life in some funny ways. The fact that I am getting ready to teach Awakening to Purpose (visit www.awakeningtopurpose.com for the details and an audio message) in a few weeks is awesome!!!!
No matter how grounded I ever feel in my life and purpose, every single time I have taught this program, I too have gone deeper and always access my next, “What’s next!” In addition to a deeper and more well define purpose, we open to what we call authentic expressions, some of which we may not even be conscious of, or for whatever reasons, we have not made priority.
Two Things That Stabilize Us
Recent conversations with dozens of people are pointing to some amazing commonalities in so many. Forced (albeit Divinely organized) transitions such as job losses, health challenges and divorces have posed a threat to both security and familiarity. In the midst of change, there are two things that seem to create a foundation for change to occur in ways that safety and security are not so threatened; community and a deep sense of purpose.
Community refers to three things.
1. The community between your ears (all of those voices who are either working competitively and distracting you, or collaboratively and in support of your purpose and highest good)
2. The community from which you receive high-level, empowering support, insight, and accountability
3. The communities through which you serve and derive meaning
Purpose is more important than many seem to understand. Meaning comes from purpose. Direction and clarity come from purpose. Expression in the physical comes from purpose. Intimacy with the Divine (God) comes from purpose. Even deep comfort comes from being truly aligned with your purpose – your ENTIRE REASON FOR EXISTENCE.
Awakening to Purpose (www.awakeningtopurpose.com) offers both a process to reawaken to (you have all the information, just might not be accessing it) and to better align with your higher reasons for existence. The group dynamic also offers a deep sense of community and a connection to many people who will help you discover and align with your life path.
I know I am looking forward to my next revelations and imagine, based on who is signing up, that this is going to be a spectacular group that is gathering.
If meaning is escaping you, if you wonder if there is something more to who you are and why you are here, if you are seeking direction and guidance professionally and personally, and if you wish to be connected to a community of like-minded and good hearted people, consider joining us.
Because of my own predictions of change, this is the final time I am teaching it live. In the future it will be taught by coaches I am looking forward to train and certify and will only be offered as a home study program from me.
Please visit www.awakeningtopurpose.com and I hope to see you on the 30th!
Speaking of Purpose…a WONDERFUL RESOURCE!
A while back we had a wonderful woman, Rosanna Ienco, on Conscious Dialogues (listen to the dialogue at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/anita-pathik-law/2009/02/04/awakening-the-divine-soul-with-anita-pathik-law-and-rosanna-ienco)
Today is a Celebration and I knew you wouldn’t want to miss out. If you do one simple thing Today, March 16, within minutes you will acquire a windfall of wisdom from dozens of the world’s greatest entrepreneurs, teachers and experts, such as Jack Canfield, Peggy McColl, Sir Richard Branson, Chris and Janet Attwood, myself, and many others.
We have gathered together to offer you a package of life transforming gifts worth thousands of dollars absolutely free, to help a very good friend of ours, Rosanna Ienco, celebrate the launch of her book: Awakening the Divine Soul - Finding Your Life Purpose. In addition to all of this, Rosanna is personally offering you her own special free bonus gift ~ a live, twenty-one day program to Discover, Nurture and Live Your Life Purpose.
Click here to view your incredible gift package: www.awakeningthedivinesoul.com/bookpromo.html
Rosanna’s profound and deeply moving story will awaken your senses, uplift your spirit and give you the key to unlock your hidden treasures. Rarely does a book come along that not only tells a compelling, captivating story, but will also inspire you to take a step of courage into the unknown and allow your soul to navigate your path. It will show you step by step how to live the life you were destined for and how to claim your birthright to manifest your heart’s desires. Her intention is to Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever.
Rosanna is not someone who just talks about personal transformation; she has experienced it for herself. Discover how a young girl with low self-esteem, raised in a rough neighborhood in Toronto by a single mother of five, found herself at the age of 24 in the heart of London, England with only fifty pounds in her pocket and nowhere to live. Despite numerous obstacles and challenges standing in her way, she listened to her inner calling and against all odds found her true purpose and passion in life. Through her easy to follow 11 steps, she will inspire you to do the same.
No matter what your current situation, where you come from, or your past experiences, Awakening the Divine Soul –Finding Your Life Purpose will take you from where you are now to where you want to be. This is not just another self-help book; it is a whirlwind spiritual adventure that will take you on a fascinating journey of personal empowerment. You will learn how to face your deepest fears, overcome obstacles, let go of self-limiting beliefs, heal relationships, discover your hidden talents and embrace your creativity and uniqueness.
Go to this link now and find out how to unveil the greatest mystery of all…yourself.
www.awakeningthedivinesoul.com/bookpromo.html
In Celebration of You!
P.S. I’m sure that you have many friends, family and colleagues who will just love Rosanna’s book and won’t want to miss out on this incredible giveaway. Please forward this message to them so they too can find their purpose and live extraordinary lives.
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