Tiffany Lee Truitt Blog

To Live and Love

2011-09-09T13:16:00.000-05:00

I had a whole bunch to say about living on this planet, working together, and harmony.

Then all I could come up with to write was this:

You are in charge of your own feelings, and your own reactions. Try to keep fear out of the equation of YOU.

El Gato Negro

2011-08-02T15:42:00.003-05:00

When I lost my Dante-san 2 years ago I decided to forgo pets for the rest of my life. Dante was my best friend, my travel buddy, and loverboy. He had many friends, admirers, and nicknames, and he was loved.

This summer I inherited a new kitty, her name is Cleo. I'll be honest I was not excited at first. She was standoffish, and let's face it, she looks exactly like Dante which made me feel a little like a traitor. But she grew on me, she attached to me like glue, and she's just got so much darned character that I couldn't help but fall in love with her.

Cleo is an upside down cat...she is happiest looking up at the world from her back. If you don't hold her with her feet up and her head in your hands she will get down immediately. It's almost as if she says "hold me right, or don't hold me at all."

One of the funniest things about this cat is she likes to go on hikes, that is when she's not being a ferocious killing/hunting machine. So today I took some pictures, and shot some video, of a day in the life of the kitty we refer to as El Gato Negro (or sometimes El Brato Negro because she's a bit of a spoiled brat).

She's a hoot! I'm glad to have her around in my life, she's my little buddy in the garden, she's chatty, she's naughty sometimes, and I'm not ecstatic about the offerings she lays on her alter of homage to me, but she a good little gato.

Here is the you tube video of her hiking: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EQY_rftRc8

Writing By Hand

2011-07-22T18:14:00.003-05:00

In today’s digital world it is most likely that ink never hit paper before your eyes digest whatever it is you read. Take this blog entry for example, I sat down with my laptop, opened Word, and started pounding away at the keys.

However, before I started this piece I had spent the afternoon reading through the myriad journals, notebooks, scrap pieces of paper, and one beer coaster (that’s another whole story) trying to transfer from paper, into electronic state, all the stories I’ve jotted down along the way. Some were scenes that are meant to be in a certain screenplay I’ve been working on, others are parts of my novel, and the beer coaster brought back a fantastic memory, and a really deep belly laugh.

I know that computers have made a lot of things so much easier, and efficient, but there is just something about holding a pen in your hand, pressing it onto paper and hearing your own voice as you see it flow through your fingers and mark the page. It’s certainly more romantic than listening to the clacking of keys, it’s prettier than a white screen with blocky black letters, and it is vastly more sensual than the feel of plastic under your fingertips and metal digging into your wrist.

I’ve found when I’m excited I grip the pen tight, and race through the curves of cursive so fast that when I go back to read it I can sense my eagerness to tell the story. Or when I’m really lost in the beauty of a thought, my technique is more fluid (and legible) and tends to be more precise.

There is an intrinsic therapy in actually picking up a pen, and writing your thoughts down on actual paper. And although I have done the electronic journaling thing, it’s just not the same. When I need to heal a deep crevice of my soul, or release a fantastic story from my mind, the only way I can get it done is to put hand to pen, and pen to paper.

Joe Bonsall - From My Perspective

2011-07-17T11:43:00.001-05:00

I went to The Oakridge Boys concert last night in Gypsum. I was excited to be there because up until a few days before I wasn't sure if my work schedule was going to allow me to go.

Thinking that I was not going to make it to the show, I called my friend Crissy to ask if she would please take my copy of Joe Bonsall's book From My Perspective to the concert and get him to sign it for me.

Incredulous she said, "I can't beleive the Oaks are going to be 5 miles away from you, and you are not going to move heaven and earth to see them. I mean, it's not very often they get this close."

She was right, so I set to work and wiggled my time slots so I could head down. Boy was it worth it. I know I'm a music freak, and a geek, and any other crazy word that describes how incredibly attached I am to song. And I've been an Oaks fan since I was very young, knowing them personally makes that connection so much stronger.

I was hanging with Joe backstage catching up (I haven't seen him for two whole years) and pulled out my book for him to sign. He was delighted, then he looked up and said "You know you're in the book right?"

Stunned, I said "Really?"

He said, "yes, remember the conversation we had one time before a show a couple years ago?"

I said, "you mean the one about guardian angels?"

He smiled, "No, but that was a good one too. It was the one about suicide, and how it's hard to understand how one person who has cancer fights his heart out to live and doesn't make it, and at the same time another person ends his life on purpose. And the whole nonsense of it all."

I was dumbfounded. I had read the book, most of it, but had not gotten all the way. The chapter that features me, is right at the back, and he even put the address of this blog in there. Well, that was a good kick in the butt.

You see, I got bullied into discontinuing my contributions to this blog, and being the pleaser/peacekeeper that I am, I put it to rest. But last night, and on into today I've thought about those words Joe Bonsall wrote, "I just read a piece by a very inspiring writer and friend, Tiffany Truitt. You can find her writings at tiffanytruitt.blogspot.com."

Wow. I am honored. But you know what? Joe isn't the only one who likes what I write, there are many, but most of them are family, most notably Dale who is my number one supporter. Then there is my cousin Melissa who coaxes me with incredible doses of love to "do this thing with your words" (she thinks I am gifted and meant to share).

So, on my drive into work I asked the big man upstairs, "what do you think?"

Ever so sweetly and in the soft voice of love that I have grown to depend on in this life he said, "I gave this gift to you, it's up to you how you use it. But, use it."

So, thank you Joe Bonsall for the kind words. Thank you my supporters and biggest fans. But I must give the most thanks to my friend and creator for the gift, and never giving up on me.

Hang on folks, here we go.

Sooner Rather Than Later

2009-10-19T00:54:00.002-05:00

It occurs to me that in all my writing my Mom shows up a good bit. It also occurs to me that I haven't mentioned one person who is very special to me quite as often.

When Mom died I was fortunate enough to have another woman waiting in the wings. Dale, my extra Mom, has been in my life since I was 7, and was married to my father when the rug got yanked out from under me 31 years ago.

When I read the last entry I made, which was on my Mom, I realized that I didn't want to be writing about someone important to me in past tense. I was overwhelmed with the desire to write about her while she's here, while she can read it, while she can appreciate and know how very integral and special she has been in my life.

It took me a while to shift gears, and adjust to a different style. As I adjusted I began to see the passion, and fierce love that resides behind the quiet. I saw a woman who chooses her words carefully, someone who will sit and listen until you run out of things to say, a person who will give you space or be at your side whenever you ask.

Some people go their whole lives without the kind of love I've experienced in my life, and every now and then it's good to remind myself how fortunate I am. So, in writing this entry I'm truly blessed to have had two extraordinary women to fill the role of "Mom".

This is the first, but it will not be the last on my extra Mom, Dale.

31 Years Ago Today - My Mom

2009-09-19T15:57:00.007-05:00

Thirty one years ago today, my entire life turned on a dime.

My Mom, my best friend, was there one minute and gone the next. I woke up to the phone ringing at 6:00 am, and hearing my friend Kim’s mom say into the phone “Oh God NO”. But before I heard those words, before the end of the first ring of the telephone I already knew.

Some people believe in premonition, intuition, the sixth sense…others don’t. I do.

Through the advances in technology, I have been able to reconnect with many of Mom’s friends who I have not seen since the day of her memorial service. I am grateful for this, and thankful to hear all the memories these people have of my mom.

My reactions have changed over the years, and along the way I have obtained a “handle” on the loss. What I have not done is forget. I am not crippled by the loss, as I was for so many years immediately following her death. I have a healthy perspective on the whole thing, life goes on, and you must move on with it or be trapped in an ugly reality that never ends.

Dad and I periodically have a discussion that goes somewhat like this “If you could trade your hand in for a completely new one(without knowing what’s in the new hand), or keep the hand you’ve got, what would you do?” I would “keep the hand I’ve got”, but if I could just trade one card, I would have Mom back.

As my Uncle Ray so perfectly put it, “I’m still pissed about that one”. I have to agree with him, it was a loss that could have been prevented. There were idiots at the helm, and the ship sank, period.

But, you cannot change the past, and we will never know the breadth of God’s master plan and my Mom’s part in it.

So, today as I reflect and remember a woman who gave me so much and crammed more things into my life in 14 years than most kids get in a lifetime from a parent, I thank God that I had her at all.

Thank you to all my friends who love me, support me, and know when to swoop in, and pull me out of a free fall into the abyss. The gift of so many friends is a blessing. I love you all very much, you are the furniture in my soul, and the art hangin on the walls of my heart.

The Joy in the Journey

2009-09-02T19:15:00.005-05:00

I have my lists on paper, and plans in my head. Today I stopped in my tracks when I couldn't remember what I rushing to go do.

Now some experts would say that what happened is just a fact of aging, that your short term memory is the first to go. I happen to disagree.

I think that as we grow older there are so many more choices and possibilities, and I think in our haste to experience and achieve, we miss all the things along the way that made the experience or achievement meaningful.

As I stood there trying to remember, a hawk swooped down for a try at dinner, the grass waved in the breeze, and I saw the most beautiful bright blue flower peeking up at me from the ground. In my moment of stillness I realized how many millions of really cool things we miss when we hurry.

I felt as if God had tapped me on the shoulder, and said "hey, slow down little one, you're missing my show."

It's a magnificent show, it plays everyday, and it is a must see.

Then I remembered where I was headed, and suddenly it wasn't worth rushing for, so I took it a little slower.

You can't remember the future, but you can remember the present.

Words From My Mom

2009-08-24T22:24:00.002-05:00

"If you don't have anything nice to say ... don't say anything at all"

Good words to practice.

All Those Who Wander Are Not Lost

2009-07-27T18:27:00.001-05:00

There's a little gypsy in my soul. Maybe from a past life? Maybe a little genetics?

Whatever it is, know that I am not lost, even if I wander :)

Soul Diving

2009-07-21T01:06:00.001-05:00

My cousin Meli's blog ...

http://souldiving.blogspot.com/

Dante Is Off To Kitty Heaven

2009-06-18T19:11:00.004-05:00

I knew this day would come. I was made aware that it would be sooner than later last December at his vet check up. His kidneys were failing, it might be a short, or long time he would stay with me, no solid answer.

So, it was today. I had to make the decision. It is by far the hardest thing I have ever had to do.

So, indulge me as I pay tribute to my best friend, my companion, my joy of the last 15 years.

I called him "the dog in drag" as he possessed so many canine traits. He would fetch a q-tip, spit it out at my feet, wiggle with anticipation, and then fetch it again, and again. He would take walks with me, and beg for attention (and food).

He remembered me, even when I had lost my memory after my head injury, and had completely forgotten him.

He traveled thousands of miles on road trips with me, perched on his pallet at window height so he could watch the miles go by, or happily "stowed under the seat in front of me".

He liked to bring me live gifts ... he was so proud.

He saved me from dying of carbon monoxide poisoning.

I will miss his little flirty purr talk, head butts, kitty kisses, and requests to come under the covers, and so much more. I will miss knowing there is a warm little buddy waiting for an ear scratch and a good snuggle.

I thought I'd be able to write more, but I just can't, I want to touch him, not write about him.

I will miss ... well, I will miss him, all of him.

Two At Sixteen

2009-05-28T13:26:00.003-05:00

Two At Sixteen - by Tiffany Lee Truitt

They were about to turn sixteen, two girls.
For her birthday One wished desperately for a new car, the other a new heart.
One told her father she “would just die” if she didn’t get what she wanted.
The other One really would.

A warm spring day, sunshine, blue sky.
One took off for a drive in her new car, top down, and music up.
The other looked out her hospital room window. Maybe today.
One blissfully young, the other wise beyond her years.

Winding roads, sunny day, wind in the hair, the freedom of speed.
Bluebird on the window sill, she watched it fly. Free. Maybe that will be me.

They met that afternoon. Two girls.
One was confused.
One knew exactly what was going on.

Two sixteen year old girls, lifted in prayer.
One barely holding on.
One barely holding on.

“I don’t know you,” One said.
“No, you don’t”
“I hear my Mom and Dad calling,” One said.
“Me too.”

They both watched.
People praying, doctors working, angels gathering.

One stayed, and One went back.
“I have a new heart,” One said.
Soft wings gathered the other One up.

A clear blue sky, a soft breeze, family and friends gathered.
Two watching.

“I waited,” One said.
One was confused.
“It doesn’t always work,” One said.
“I see.”

Two sixteen year olds flew on the wings of angels.
Their roles on earth perfectly played.
A tragedy on earth.
A standing ovation in Heaven.

© Tiffany Lee Truitt - all rights reserved.

Sweet Sugar Kisses

2009-05-18T21:03:00.004-05:00

I put Taylor (9) and Lily(4) down for bed tonight. They gave me sweet sugar kisses goodnight and snuggled up close as I sang soft songs to put them to sleep.

Taylor rested her head on my chest and said, "I love you Aunt Tiff". I kissed the top of her head and rested my cheek there wishing I could protect her from any, and everything, that would ever harm her.

Little Lily fisted one hand, and tucked it up under her chin, the other hand she took and put on my face. With her thumb and forefinger resting on my lips, she strummed the other three on my cheek keeping rhythm on an invisible instrument as I sang.

I lay there with both girls in my arms, in the stillness of the dark room, listening to their breathing as they began their nights journey to sleep. It's such a short trip for the little ones compared to we adults. They don't lay there worrying, or working, in their mind chasing sleep from their night.

Lily's hand spread up over my cheek as her little nose rested under my jaw, her breath softly warming my neck as she yawned and sighed. Her little body moved with those micro twitches that precede complete surrender to sleep.

My soul recognized this peace from days so long ago in my youth. It wanted to capture the moment to save and replicate somehow for days in my future, days that I know will tax me to extreme limits, and days when people will come in and kick the furniture of my soul, rudely and without permission.

As I slipped away from these two slumbering angels, little pieces of my heart stayed behind to weave their way into the security blankets of these precious sweet girls.

Like A River To The Sea

2009-04-23T23:32:00.002-05:00

I am very predictable, and yet not.

My father will tell you he always keeps the possibility of a curve ball from me in the back of his mind. Good strategy.

I can conform when I need to, or if it serves a purpose, then I will take off on my own, follow a lost trail, the road less traveled, and love the journey. This would definitely be my mother in me, and I'm very proud of that part of my gene pool. She had the most fun while she was on this planet.

It seems I am missing her a lot lately, must be because I'm traveling, and that was her favorite thing to do. Actually her favorite thing to do was travel with me, so I'm thinking she's been pretty present on this trip. Yet another predictable thing, Mom with me while I travel.

As predictable as some things are, so many things are up in the air for me these days ... would prefer to get back being a river heading for the sea ... the known. There goes that need for control again. Will I ever learn this lesson?

They Are Just Things

2009-04-14T00:05:00.002-05:00

Topics of conversation these days seem to revolve around losses. Whether it is things given up during a divorce, losses from the economic downturn, or the myriad different reasons people are "losing" material possessions.

I have a slightly different view on this topic, and it goes like this - They are just things. Whenever I personally get caught up in the loss mentality I quickly snap out of it knowing that I would give everything I own to spend one more day with my mom. That I would forgo any material object to spend time with those I love, or those that need my love.

When I bring it down to that perspective there is not a person I know that does not look me in the eye with the depth of their soul and agree.

Things are not worth fighting over, they are not worth the energy drain, and the life they take from you. They are not worth distracting you from loving your kids, spending time with your friends/family.

They are just things, they can be replaced if you've lost them, and want them back. Or they can be forgotten as you focus on what really matters. Whenever I have surrendered to this way of thinking, I've been blessed with treasures more valuable than "things".

Welcome Home

2009-04-10T22:03:00.006-05:00

Welcome Home
By
Tiffany Lee Truitt

It was a conversation I had hoped to have when I was very old.

“So, this is it?” I asked quietly. “Am I done?”

We stood beside each other, not looking eye to eye.

He didn’t speak, but put one arm around me, and we walked on a white sand beach, turquoise water shimmering from the light of a golden sun. Shells were everywhere, whole and perfect. The sea breeze was light, the smell of salt water in it.

I was glad I was young enough to be able to walk this beach.

“It wouldn’t have mattered if you were young, or very old,” he said.

We walked some more, his arm around me, and the sand turned to mountains, the ocean to a stream.

I was curious. “Why wouldn’t it matter?”

He didn’t speak, instead, an energy flowed from his arm, radiating through my body.
The trail was narrow, winding up the mountain, yet we seemed to fit walking side by side.

I wondered why we were alone. I had envisioned more people here.

“This is your walk. It’s just for you,” he said. “You have questions. Go ahead, ask.”

I didn’t know where to start, there were so many. And anyway, how would HE know?

It wasn’t a question I led with. “I wasn’t done,” I said, like a child being called off the playground.

“Yes, you were.” He said. And another wave of radiant energy shot through me.

“No, I wasn’t.” I tried to pull away, I wanted to face him. But his arm stayed on my shoulder, and we continued side by side.

The climb was easy. That was a surprise. We reached a meadow teaming with wildlife, a mirror lake, and soft green blankets of grass. I could see the trail continue up on the other side, but we stood still.

“There were things left undone,” I said.

“Those things are for others to finish,” he said. “It’s part of my plan.”

I stared at the meadow flooded with guilt, and fear, scared to say out loud what he had to know already.

“I didn’t believe in you,” I said, sure the meadow would burst into flames, molten lava, and brimstone.

“Yes, you did,” he said, “or you wouldn’t be standing here with me today.”

“No, really, I didn’t,” I said trembling.

Without a word the images began to flash before me. I was skiing down a mountain in feet of fresh snow, my heart pounding out my joy. I was on a mountain bike, riding the rim of a red rock canyon running the gauntlet, only to give way to pavement rushing under my wheels as I sped along the road. Water rushed under me as I rode waves, wind lifted me as I took off in flight. The visual replay got faster and faster, full of times I had loved, people I had loved. But still, I didn’t understand.

“You lived,” he said. “You loved.”

“I don’t get it,” I said trying to turn to him.

He held me tight, “look at what you did, who you touched,” his arm reached out and pointed. “You did that for me.”

My life was there before me, but only the good, how could that be?

“Forgiveness,” was all he said.

We walked through the meadow, picking up the trail on the other side.

I had expected a different result. I was confused. How could I be in this spot, after all I’d done, after denying the truth? Surely when we reached the top he would hurl me off, and into the abyss.

His arm stayed on me, guiding me up, infusing light with each step.

“Do not be afraid,” he said.

The boulders beside the path turned to faces. People that I loved, those who had gone before me, were smiling.

We reached the summit. I could see where I had come from. “They weren’t ready,” I said, watching everyone I had left behind.

“No, but you were part of their lesson,” he said, and paused.

“I am LOVE,” he continued, “and your love, the love you spread while you were there, was me.”

He dropped his arm and turned to face me.

I prepared for judgment. This was it.

I forced my eyes to his, and as I looked he turned into light. I stood outside the light watching as it grew, heated, and shone with blinding brightness.

“You have a choice,” I heard the light say.

I was not worthy, I knew it.

“You are,” I heard it clearly, “you are mine, but ultimately you have to choose.”

That light was inviting, warm, beckoning. The ultimate love was asking me in. ME!

I trembled as I took the first step, my foot turning to light. The second step was easier. Still I hesitated to take the last step. What if this was a trick?

“You’re almost there,” I heard him say.

I felt peace begin to seep into my soul, and as I took the last step it coursed through me like the raging rapids I had so loved to ride. The light enveloped me, its warmth wrapped me up in possession. As I stood surrounded by its amazing grace, tears ran down my face turning to clean white snow drifting down to settle over what I’d left behind.

“Welcome Home,” he said.

© copyright and all rights reserved Tiffany Truitt

Optimism Is Not Blissful Ignorance

2009-04-01T15:46:00.004-05:00

Being optimistic does not make you immune to trauma, it does not turn a blind eye to reality. What it does do is allow you to proceed through life with the ability to see a wall you can climb over, not a dead end.

The fingers have been pointing so wildly that everything is pretty much a blur in my mind. Does knowing who or what got us here really matter right this minute? Blame is a poison that kills forward progress.

People ask me all the time how I can keep turning pitfalls into possibilities, how I am so resilient after so many blows in life. The only thing I can say is that I had good examples in my life of how to pick myself up and soldier on.

But it's really a little more than that I guess. It's a mind set, a very personal thing that only you can create. There is no amount of personal growth seminars, books, or anything on this planet that can change your mind but your own self. Don't get me wrong, influences can help you down the path to optimism, but ultimately the decision is yours alone.

The naysayers would have us believe that our optimism is ignorant, that by having a positive attitude we are oblivious to the multitude of problems in this world.

I respectfully disagree, what I think optimism does for us is allow us to see more avenues for overcoming the problems, it allows us to get out of the muck that the problem is mired in.

My grandmother used to say "if you lay with dogs, you'll get fleas". Fleas bite and make you itch ... why would I want that? Same thing goes for optimism, if I go the negative route it's just going to be painful.

I would love to see more of this approach in our media. I would love to see the same from our Congress. We have simply got to move on, it starts with putting one optimistic foot in front of the other. Let's all walk out the door of this abysmal attitude, this gloom and doom, and shut it firmly behind us.

There is a better world out there for the taking, we all just have to have faith, and make the optimistic view our reality. We have the power to make this happen.

When in doubt ... ask the geese .... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahcyZJiXr90

© copyright and all rights reserved Tiffany Truitt

Come With A Solution

2009-04-01T14:50:00.003-05:00

I have been involved in so many things lately that involve dissenting points of view. In recent meetings I've listened to so many people complain, yet they offer no solutions.

Growing up in my family, this was never an option. If you were dissatisfied with anything, you had to come prepared with a suggestion on how to solve the problem you were unhappy with.

If you had no solution, you kept your gripe to yourself.

By operating this way, my parents (particularly my father), got me to think proactively, which translates to turning a negative into a positive.

I've been involved in meetings recently with a lot of people who do not think this way, and it's been challenging. Worse there are "meeting bullies" out there who simply arrive with their own agenda's, talk over everyone else present, are disruptive, and have no intention or desire to reach a solution.

When I'm particularly challenged by such negative people I wish I had that magic button within my reach that Dr. Evil uses to flip the chair back and launch the offender into the fire pit :]]]]]]]]

© copyright and all rights reserved Tiffany Truitt

You Never Know

2009-03-31T10:43:00.005-05:00

I sat in an ICU waiting room yesterday with eight people. It's painful to say I have been in that place too many times before.

As I sat watching, listening, and sometimes contributing to the conversation here and there, I realized how connected we all are even though we don't realize it. The eight people sitting in that room were seemingly random, yet I believe there is really no randomness in life. I believe we serve a purpose in everything we do, sometimes the role is very small, and sometimes it's the leading role.

The group of eight sitting there would never have intentionally made a plan to get together, yet as I sat and observed, participated, and reflected on the grouping, the seemingly random became clear.

Our own experiences and lessons prepare us for giving and receiving. As I've said so many times, life cannot be one sided, you can't give until you are empty, or become the black hole of taking. Like music, there must be harmony for a result that doesn't make you hold your ears, and run screaming from the concert hall.

Sometimes you're in the hotseat, buried so deep in stress that you can't see light, and sometimes you are the purveyor of calm, peace, and love. And through it all, you never know what position you are going to be in at any given second, of any day of your life. The other part of this merry-go-round, the extra added thrill, is that anything and everything can turn on a dime.

Life is full of circles, and yesterday was the completion of a circle for at least two of us.

For me I realized how much trauma the point person endures in an ICU situation. I found myself wanting to wrap that person up in my arms and tell her it would all work out, but that wasn't my role yesterday. The lesson was for me to understand how very important it is to work through the post traumatic stress once the crisis is over. Personally I had locked all that away 10 years ago, and yesterday I was given the gift of releasing that pain through the process of simply observing. It will be the job of friends to make sure yesterday's woman makes it through without permanent scars.

For Linda it was the chance to be "on the other side", and although she has always appreciated all the love and support she received when she was in ICU, it became crystal clear just exactly what went into that process. She thanked me again, only this time it came from a full circle perspective.

Sometimes we are "not so innocent" bystanders. Sometimes you have absolutely no idea why you are present in a situation, but there is always a reason. The job, as a human on this planet, is to show up with goodness in your heart, honest intentions, an open mind, and the willingness to love unselfishly.

© copyright and all rights reserved Tiffany Truitt

Thank God For Kids ...

2009-03-12T21:58:00.004-05:00

It's March in Vail/Beaver Creek ... and things are really cranking.

I've skied with a little four year old for the past three days, tomorrow is our last. As I have found in the past, I see now that I love working with this age. Although it takes a lot out of me physically, the joy that comes from being around complete innocence and unbridled love which resides in children is the most rewarding adventure an adult can experience.

They ask a million questions, they are easily amused, simplicity is the order of the day, and their laugh can cure anything that weighs on your heart. A simple song can keep them amused for hours, you can guess at the number of chairs on a chairlift, you can contemplate why the snow is white, and where the birds go when it's snowing. In short, you can remove yourself from the pervasive negative world affairs, economy, or any other "adult" worry, and lose yourself through the eyes of a child.

I highly suggest interacting with them as often as possible to remind yourself that there is hope, and it starts with the un-littered soul of a child.

© copyright and all rights reserved Tiffany Truitt

When Your Body Talks ...

2009-02-06T12:30:00.003-06:00

... you should listen right away.

My back has been shooting me the finger boldly, and with great flare, for a week now. So, today I laid down on the floor, closed my eyes, and tried to get in touch with the root of the pain.

As I did a quiet meditative search through my system (doing my best to ignore the screaming hissy fit my lower back can't seem to get over) I realized that I need to be kinder to my physical self. I have been demanding that it perform at a really high level without doing the loving things it needs (like stretching, resting, strengthening).

So, as I work through the current revolution, and convince my lower back that it cannot secede, my intentions are to take the steps necessary to ensure future peace in the union that is me.

Is Your Ladder Leaning Against The Right Wall?

2009-02-02T11:18:00.006-06:00

I've reached the top of the ladder many times only to realize it was leaning against the wrong wall.

In light of a recent tragedy, and the loss of lives that resulted, I am more acutely aware that our time on this earth is not guaranteed. And that the time wasted from climbing a ladder that puts me far away from where I really want to be is not worth the effort.

There is so much energy involved in climbing the ladder, both physical, emotional, and psychic. We only have so much of this energy to give before we are so completely empty that it makes sense to be a little more prudent with the steps we take each day.

I urge everyone to take a deep breath, stop for a second and look around. Are you on the wall you want? Are you happy with what you are doing? Is there joy in your life?

I pray the answers to these questions are a resounding yes. If your answer is no, stop climbing and move your ladder because seriously if your life ended in the next ten minutes, would you be satisfied with what your were working on, and where you were going?

My heart wishes everyone love, happiness, and a beautiful harmonic experience in this life.

Who's Big Idea Was It To Put Ego In The Mix?

2009-01-26T19:47:00.002-06:00

I laughed hard tonight. Meli and I were talking about life in general, and the soul's desire to just live in the light of LOVE.

I made her laugh when I said, "Yeah, the light of Love is the best ... who's big idea was it to put Ego in the mix?" Yet again a reason why I think God has a spectacular sense of humor.

Here we all are on earth, in human form, and BAM our blissfully happy souls get the shock of all shocks when along comes Ego. The soul starts looking around for the candid camera ... "is this a joke?"

I see this in my own little soul, it wants to connect so badly, and bask in the light of LOVE. Then along comes my annoying Ego thumping its chest, hollering at the top of its lungs, and generally killing any joy the soul was achieving.

So, after we giggled and threw out some pretty good one liners, we agreed that the more soul work we do, the further into submission our egos are retreating. And it all goes back to that surrender concept ... go figure.

What's The Blessing?

2009-01-26T19:40:00.004-06:00

In speaking with my sweet cousin this evening it came out in conversation that both of us are on a parallel path in our spiritual and personal growth.

At one point we were speaking of how great it is that we have become so much quicker in learning the lesson in challenging situations. Then I told her that about four months ago I began to not only ask myself "what's the lesson" but also, "what's the blessing " when facing a struggle or challenge.

By beginning to see the blessings in situations, that at first really hurt, I've been able to let go and surrender.

So, the other day when I got pulled off the schedule at work, the blessing was that I got to spend three fabulous days skiing with a very special person and developing a fantastic relationship.

Whenever I've thought I've lost, I've actually been blessed. This little reframing exercise has in itself been a blessing.

The View

2009-01-25T21:27:00.003-06:00

Vail Mountain Last Wednesday ... it was stunning. The day was perfect, not a cloud in the sky, cobalt blue skies, and a day of skiing with a buddy.

My mom used to love this song Stop And Smell The Roses and it came to mind as I rounded the corner after leaving chair 8 and heading to chair 2.

I have been so incredibly blessed in this life, no matter how difficult some times have been, I'm so much more fortunate than so many others, and thankful.

So, the ability to ski on Vail Mountain on a gorgeous day with a friend to smile and laugh with was a day for the memory book. It doesn't get much better :)

It's Better To Be Hated For Who You Are Than To Be Loved For Who You're Not

2009-01-09T22:01:00.002-06:00

This is a lyric in the song "Help Somebody" by Van Zant.

What a great line. Every time I hear this I think about how important it is to listen to your gut and do what your gut is telling you (your gut is God's megaphone, remember).

We have all made choices to be here at this specific time, to learn the lessons of this lifetime. I have figured out what I'm here for ... how about you?

When you are still and listening ... what is God (Spirit) telling you? Are you stubbornly trying to achieve your own agenda? How much are you willing to lose fighting for your Ego?

You are unique, there is not another like you on this planet at this time. Listen to your heart, be the best human you can be, and tell anyone who doesn't like it to take a big hike! Be your potential, stay on the high road, and anyone who doesn't love you for who you are ... isn't worth a second thought.

God loves you for who you are, it would be great if you loved yourself the same way!

Energy Flows Where Attention Goes

2009-01-08T17:19:00.003-06:00

Some lessons take reinforcement on a daily basis. This is one of them.

I keep having to yank myself out of the negative clutches of people who want to live in the past. It's the past, it cannot be changed, there is absolutely no point in dwelling there ... you cannot grow in the past.

I find though it is getting easier, and quicker, for me to stop myself from participating in thoughts, and actions, that will detour me off the high road. So there's some relief there.

Hopefully as I spend more time being happy, positive, and cognizant of where I'm putting my attention ... the energy will flow towards the positive.

God's Free Gifts

2009-01-05T09:28:00.006-06:00

This was the sunset on New Year's Day here in Vail. I found it so significant that God put on such a spectacular show to start the new year off ... he can be quite showy sometimes!

On my journey the past couple of years so many things have been shown to me, and so many great transformations have occurred. Some of the more significant realizations I have come to include figuring out that the only person's health, happiness and growth I can affect are my own. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't an easy lesson to learn, and I slipped a few times thinking I could fix things for others. Sometimes I'm a really slow learner ... my Dad would argue and say it's just my eternal optimism.

God has been giving me glimpses over the past few months of what he's got in store for me. Of course it was only after I bugged him to death for at least one clue as to what my purpose is, and asked for just the slightest hint of how to do it.

I would ask, "what's my purpose on this planet"? And, the answer I have consistently received is, "to love". I've been rolling that answer over and over in my mind since the first time I received the answer. My uncle Ray told me he's known this was my purpose my whole life ... glad God let someone in on this little bit of news from the get go.

So, "to love", at first I thought this couldn't really be a purpose, it was too simple. Then I decided to equate "loving" to "helping" ... that took me off the highway, and down a bumpy dirt road with a dead end. Then I spent some time in self analyzation as to why I equate love with help ... my brain began to hurt.

Then, I finally began to get it (I'm sure all my relatives in heaven went to God personally and thanked him). I figured out that in order to fulfill my purpose all I need to do is be the best person I can be, and "to love" means to allow others their own successes and failures with no interference from me, only their knowledge that either way they are in my heart. Just as I've had to fall flat on my face with a big loud splat, others need that opportunity to grow as well.

Of course, that is not the only definition of what I'm meant to do, as the story keeps unfolding daily. I'm also finding that I'm spending more and more time in meditation with God. This time has become very meaningful because, in order to be the giver I like to be, I need to be refilled as well. The receiving has always been much harder than the giving for me, but I'm working on it. It helps I'm learning that "to love" means also loving myself as well.

In my one on one time with my creator, the verse "Be still and know that I am God" (psalms 46:10) kept showing up repeatedly, in big and small ways, everywhere. I used to think this meant I needed to be quiet and listen to God, which is in itself a good thing. But really, the word translated “be still” comes from the Hebrew term raphah, which means to go slack, to give up control.

When I learned this, it hit me like a freight train ... my biggest Nemesis in life is control, and I've subconsciously fought with God for control my whole life! There it was, the answer. It sure took me long enough to get it. "Be still" - Give up control, "and know that I am God" - God can do everything without my help, thank you very much. There it was, the mother of all light bulbs. My arrogance in thinking I have control, and God sitting ever so patiently waiting for me to get it. It's almost comical. Good thing for all of us his sense of humor is well in tact.

So, I got it, and figured out that my "helping" nature was really me trying to control life, and that in order to fulfill my purpose "to love" I had to "be still" and let God handle it. "To love" means to be a conduit for God, to follow his lead, to surrender control and simply be one of his points of light.

As I begin this new year and ponder what my word for the year will be, and what intentions I will set, I'm surrounded by this sublime feeling that I am sitting safe in the palm of God's hand. I'm allowing myself to be loved, knowing that this is the only way I can truly love others. The light is filling my heart, permeating my soul, and overflowing to the world around me.

There are others with me on this journey, and the power of love is growing ... I can feel it. Tune in, listen, "be still", watch the plan unfold, and take joy in your part.

My heart goes out in wishing everyone the best of everything this year.

There Is Always A Reason

2008-12-30T19:41:00.001-06:00

There comes a point in your life when you realize
who matters,
who never did,
who won't anymore..and who always will.
So, don't worry about people from your past,
there's a reason why they didn't make it to your future.

Thanksgiving and Gratitude

2008-11-28T12:55:00.003-06:00

In reflecting on the Thanksgiving Holiday and its meaning, it was good to see the tremendous blessings that have arrived since a year ago.

Last thanksgiving I was beginning to let go of very harmful influences in my life. Since then the affirmations of those changes have continued to manifest. I am so very fortunate, and grateful for all the blessings received, and the gift of discernment to see how to move past the negative, let go of those who mean to harm me, and examine the present, and all the possibilities in the NOW.

Our universe has such an intricate, and to a large degree incomprehensible, ability to constantly regain balance. I remember watching a set of weighing scales one day, when I was out at the open markets in Kuala Lumpur with my Mom, and thinking that balance really only happens for a split second, then the weighing begins again.

So, in thinking about what is happening all around me, I began to think in terms of weighing and balancing, and all became very clear.

Just as we have seasons, just as the tides come and go, there is always give and take, a weighing in search of balance. Just as things must die in winter in order to renew in spring, we ourselves must do the same. We must do it personally, as a culture, as a society, as a collective conscious.

And, just as the scales go up and down seeking balance, seasons change, and tides rise and fall, so do our relationships, our economies, basically our whole system.

In focusing on right now, this very minute, I am able to reduce the long term effects that come from my scales swinging wildly in the winds of worry. You cannot change the past, and holding onto it only hurts you. Get rid of blame, the buck solely stops with you and your choices.

Say goodbye to the day as you lay your head down to sleep each night, and wake up each day with a glad heart knowing that today is brand new with all sorts of possibilities. With each day choose to be happy, choose to love without conditions, choose to take the high road, and engage grace with every step you take. You will stumble, just as I do, so don't beat yourself up about it, but with each day of practice you will get better.

You cannot control the future any more than you can control the tides, or the seasons. Trust me, just when you think you've got it all mapped out, and planned, God always shuffles the deck (I mean he has to amuse himself somehow, right?).

At the end of it all is God's plan, and our scales will swing substantially less if we would just believe when it was said, "Be still and know that I am God". Whatever you choose to call your higher being there is one truth ... our higher being is not out to harm us, ever; we do that to ourselves.

So, in this winter of our economy, and any personal challenges you face, trust that with the tides going out and leaving a really foul stench, renewal will always follow. Spring and Summer will come again, have faith.

Cartoon from Jim ...

2008-11-13T14:16:00.003-06:00

OK, I know there's a "language" element in this cartoon, but I laughed for a good long while, which every now and then you just need to do ...

The Beauty of a Blog

2008-11-06T22:46:00.004-06:00

... is that it is no one else's but your own.

You can add, edit, or delete. You can do whatever you like ... because at the end of the day, it belongs solely to you. It's just an online journal, a personal opinion page, a place to talk about anything you want.

Sometimes I have interesting things to say, sometimes not, sometimes I feel funny, others not so much. I may stumble upon good deals to let people know about, I may want my friends to share in a joy, or I may just contemplate in free form.

But, remember, this is my place, you are a guest here - and in correlation to that, if you stayed at a hotel that wasn't up to your standards, you would never go there again. Get the picture?

And, something to remember as we all surf the net ... no one is holding a gun to your head to read what I've got to say, or what anyone else has stuck up on the web. If I watched something on YouTube, and I didn't like it, how dumb would it be for me to seek out more of that person's videos and keep on watching?

We all have choices to make, if you choose to read my posts, and you don't like them, then stop reading. Continually reading my blog, hating it all the way, then complaining to me after you've chosen to read it for months on end - well that begs an evaluation of your intelligence.

Shifting Gears

2008-11-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

I was reviewing my blog back to when I started almost a year ago. My one year anniversary will be November 15 ... WOW.

I came across a poem that I wrote, which will appear in the forward of my book, title "What If".

As I read it, I self examined and realized I needed to re-frame my thinking, adjust my frustration with the government, and recognize that I don't need to point fingers. The truth always surfaces (it just doesn't always happen when I want it to - that's a control issue, I know).

I was also moved in remembering the peaceful spirit that consumed me when I wrote this little poem ... it came over me again. In that ocean of calm, my word for the year reappeared - "SURRENDER".

In an effort to remind myself and regain perspective I am republishing "What If".

What If?

What if, instead, you see things going right, and not wrong? What if things will be better, and not worse.

What if we thought this way?

What if you saw the outcome as great, and not awful? What if the person was happy you fixed it, not mad that you tried without permission?

Would the good of the whole be served?

What if you saw Triumphs instead of Traps? Possibilities, and not Pitfalls?

What if you let go, truly let go, and just believed?

What if you accepted yourself like God does? And, loved others the same way?

What would you do with that freedom?

What's stopping you?

Forgiveness And Reconciliation Do Not Mean The Same Thing

2008-10-09T13:09:00.005-05:00

It's interesting to me how God works in this world.

In conversations this week with friends all over the globe (literally) it was interesting to hear that at each of their Sunday services the sermon/topic was Forgiveness.

The ensuing conversations I had with each of these friends was how so many people confuse Forgiveness with Reconciliation. They are not the same.

For instance, I have forgiven my ex-husband, but he is never allowed in my life again. I have forgiven people who have hurt me emotionally, and/or physically in an effort to restore positive love and harmony in my life, and to expel any energy that can separate me from the person I'm meant to be. However, make no mistake, in all of those instances I have made choices of whether or not the relationship will be reconciled, or not.

Understand that it is perfectly healthy and acceptable to make a choice to eliminate a relationship from your life if you determine it's harmful.

The mistake I see so many people make in this particular cycle is they assume if they say they are sorry, and you forgive them, that everything can go back to normal and the parties have "kissed and made up". This is only the case if both parties have agreed to reconcile, it is not simply a by-product of forgiveness.

As I was listening to a dear friend explain her frustration in the fact that her ex-husband does not understand the difference in these two concepts, and thinks that since she has forgiven him, everything can go back to the way it was. It struck me that the definitions get blurred by so many people.

So (on a personal note) while I have made a concerted effort to clear, and cleanse, and let go of any grudges, there are a few that I have chosen not to reconcile. And, when I have wanted to reconcile a relationship that matters to me, I have done so.

As I write this, my heart and soul are fully satisfied with the knowledge that the relationships which matter to me are in great standing :) The best news of all is that I'm so very blessed to have so many people who matter.

Jersey Boys

2008-08-01T11:47:00.002-05:00

This just might be the best show I've ever seen! No kiddin'.

Dale called me a couple days before and said my dad would not be able to go, so she invited me to take his ticket. I had heard of the show, but really didn't know much about it.

To say that I was entertained is an understatement. From the first note of "December 1963 (Oh What A Night)" the show had me tapping my toes, and sucked into the story. The dialogue is clever, and accurate. And, you seriously cannot tell the difference between the stage Frankie and the real one. All the voices were phenomenal!

The story moved along at a good clip with enough information, yet it never got bogged down with too much detail. I was completely tickled at the introduction of Joe Pesci ... what an interesting little twist.

There was absolutely nothing I didn't like ... I will go many more times, I liked it that much.

If you ever get the chance to see it ... DO!

Le Tour de France

2008-07-15T20:53:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again ... blistering hot in Texas, nice and cool for the mountain stages of the Tour :)

I know, not everyone gets my addiction to this little bike race, but oh well. I just love it!

The US teams are doing great! And, my favorite - hot Georgie Hincape, is putting in another stellar performance for his team. If you have not ever taken the time to know about this fantastic man - You should!

Since the exit of Lance, the Tour has suffered some earthshakingly awful doping scandals, and some pretty controversial wins/losses. This year is proving different, and living up to their campaign of "Taking Back The Tour"

And, although it took me until this year to get over the major downer it was to no longer see Lance in the Tour, I am over it, and back in the crowd - cheering.

I guess the highs and lows are so extreme, that it really gets you going ... check it out the race is broadcast live on the Versus Channel every morning, and then re-broadcast two more times that same day. Today is their one rest day, then it's back to the grind up the Pyrenees!

Enjoy :)

Father's Day

2008-06-19T23:11:00.000-05:00

My father is the coolest. End of discussion.

Moms - The Blessing

2008-05-11T10:29:00.001-05:00

I have been fortunate enough to have two Moms in my lifetime.

After a discussion last evening I spent some time last night thinking about my Mom-Debbie and my Mom - Dale. I had Debbie for only 13 years. I've had Dale for 36 years. And, looking at it, I know God has blessed me with the influence of both these great women.

Debbie crammed as much as she could into the 13 years she had with me. Dale has been there consistently supporting me all the way, even when I didn't think she was there, I was wrong.

There is a delicate tight rope to walk when you are a step-parent, but what I have discovered is that Dale didn't ever walk this line, she just accepted me as her own, and didn't blink.

I'm thankful for both of them, I wouldn't be the person I am today without either of them.

Perfect Karmic Accounting

2008-05-10T13:03:00.002-05:00

The last time Mairead, Linda and I were together we had a discussion about this topic. We were discussing the fact that you receive exactly what you put out. At some point in the discussion Mairead said, "never fear, the universe has an absolutely perfect accounting system."

When she said this an image of a simple spread sheet appeared in my mind with only two columns, one was give and one was receive. All at once I had a crystal vision of exact balance.

The thing to think of here is that when bad things are happening, it's Karma working itself out in your life. More importantly is for us to let go of the urge to retaliate, it is not for us to help/deliver Karma. You know, that turn the other cheek thing.

The accounting will balance, it's an absolute truth, the sooner you figure that out, the better.

So, these days when something hurts me, my immediate reaction is no longer to figure out how to get even. What I do now is look at that person and smile, knowing that I'm one step closer to a clean slate. And them, well, that's their own Karma to deal with, the scale will get balanced.

Make no mistake, and it bears repeating, you get what you give. And remember, revenge is a Karmic black hole.

Sweet Melissa

2008-05-07T09:13:00.004-05:00

No, I'm not going to talk about the song, I'm going to talk about my fabulous cousin!

Melissa and I have reconnected, which is such a blessing. This young one (I can say that because I'm so much older) is so incredibly cool.

Without knowing it (although I really think in the spiritual realm we knew) we have both been on a similar journey, and have arrived at exactly the same place :) It's such a joy to see the peace and love dwelling in Melissa ... God's grace is at work again.

I'm so thankful for each and every one of you in my life, my friends and family.

I love you :)

The Light in the Tunnel

2008-04-17T15:20:00.001-05:00

Sing it Loud and Sing it Proud!

2008-03-24T17:47:00.003-05:00

My local country station plays the National Anthem every day at high noon. It always makes me smile when I hear it.

Today it particularly struck me how fortunate I am to be an American, how blessed our lives are here, and what sacrifices have been made along the way to allow this very wonderful existence.

I think we take too many things for granted, and that most of us could not walk a mile in the shoes of those who provide the freedom and safety we so freely enjoy.

So, when I hear our National Anthem, I sing along, Loud and Proud! Join me :)

Moms

2008-03-13T10:57:00.002-05:00

I have been fortunate enough to have two Moms in my lifetime.

After a discussion last evening I spent some time last night thinking about my Mom Debbie and my Mom Dale.

I had Debbie for only 13 years. I've had Dale for 36 years. And, looking at it, I know God has blessed me with the influence of both these great women.

Debbie crammed as much as she could into the 13 years she had with me. Dale has been there consistently supporting me all the way, even when I didn't think she was there, I was wrong.

There is a delicate tight rope to walk when you are a step-parent, but what I have discovered is that Dale didn't ever walk this line, she just accepted me as her own, and didn't blink. I'm thankful for both of them, I wouldn't be the person I am today without either of them.

Real Friends

2008-03-12T18:56:00.002-05:00

I have figured out some things along the road.

The topic today is Real Friends.

Simply put, real friends, the ones you can count on, the ones who truly love you, are the ones that love you through the bad times. It's easy to be a friends when the weather is fair, the going is easy, and all they have to do is receive. The real test comes when seas get rough, and it's time to step up, and help someone other than themselves.

When you are in a dark place, floundering around, performing self sabotage, and generally doing destructive things ... that's when a real friend steps in, and without judgement, comes along side of you and helps you get to the root of what's causing your trouble.

They give you love when you don't love yourself.

Cindy's Mama

2008-03-11T20:02:00.002-05:00

I only ever knew her as Mama. She was just that kind of person. She gave her love freely.

She was such a blessing to those who knew her, me included. I will miss her greatly, and know she is still sending her love ... just from a different place.

Smokey John's

2008-02-29T08:33:00.004-06:00

I went to Smokey John's last night. As usual, it was a thumpin' Amen & Glory to God event. I've only been a couple of times, but yesterday afternoon I got the message loud and clear that I should go, and these days when the Big Man talks to me, I listen.

In keeping with the theme God seems to be hammering home in my soul these days, Pastor Cook told us all that big changes are coming this year. And, I believe him, because God's been delivering the same message to me EVERY SINGLE DAY.

I can't emphasize the point enough, we are in for a spiritual coalescence and transformation, and it's mounting up strength.

And, don't worry, it's a good change, I feel the people on this earth are waking up and seeing that the only way change can occur is if we do it.

Think about it this way, Just like I can decide to help someone, or just walk away. I can also decide to think positively and send love into this world as opposed to focusing on what's wrong thinking gloom and doom.

God gave me a solid kick in the butt last night with words that everyone heard, but I felt like they were a direct order to me. I wish everyone could have been there, it was a powerful message, very real, very down to earth, and a call to action.

It was this, "Change is coming, big change, and it's not something we can even conceive in our minds. We will see huge transformations of heart, and spirit. Pay attention, listen, and do your part."

The other thing that hit home was that I do not spend enough time with him. Think of it as a personal relationship, if he were your earthly parent, spouse, or best friend, do you give him the same love and attention? Do you listen enough?

I laughed when Pastor Cook said "Okay, I know we all spend about 15 minutes going through our prayer list asking for help and blessing for ourselves and others, then we spend about 2 minutes (if at all) listening." I was reminded that it is important to be still, and quiet, and just LISTEN. Very few of us do this enough.

There are no rules here. If you feel better speaking to him formally and in reverence, do that. If you are like me and just chat with him whenever and wherever you are, do that. But, it's not the talking part that is the problem, it's the listening bit ... so, do whatever you need to do to get some place quiet and with no distractions. Still your mind, close your eyes, and open your heart. I guarantee you will hear him.

I have all sorts of visuals that run through my mind when I'm listening. Sometimes God and I are walking hand in hand down an old dirt road with trees, flowers and animals all around. Sometimes I crawl up into his big lap and rest my head on his chest while he holds me, calms me and tells me not to worry ... he's got it all covered. Sometimes we sit side by side staring out over an ocean in silent conversation. Sometimes I can see his laughing and amused face as he shares the joy he gets from me, and how much he loves me. And, I never doubt that he loves me, and that he loves everyone.

The most comforting thing about God is that no matter what choices you make, even the sub-optimal ones, he is always right there loving you. Go ahead, love him back :)

A Little Bit of Mom

2008-02-20T15:07:00.006-06:00

Yikes! The religious right just nailed me :(

Okay, I will share a little story with you that will explain my broader view of religion versus spirituality.

I was about 10 or 11 years old. I was walking down Orchard Road in Singapore, having just returned from the summer break spent with my Dad.

Somehow, over the course of the summer, I had a little too much Southern Baptist doctrine planted in my brain (courtesy of my grandmother's church where I spent a lot of time while Dad was working). And, being the chatter box I am, I was filling Mom in on some of the things I'd learned. All of a sudden the loud sirens announcing Muslim prayer went off all around me, and I promptly spouted off "those people are going to hell".

My Mom yanked my arm so hard I thought it was going to come out of its socket, and she got right down in my face. "Now you listen here young lady..." I knew she meant business whenever she said that. "I don't care whether someone calls it Allah, Buddha, God, or whatever, we all believe in the same thing, a higher being, a Universal Creator, The Big Man Upstairs," she paused, "You got that?"

I nodded my head yes. And, just for reinforcement she made me learn about every religion she could think of for the next year. Trust me, that lesson was about more than religion, it was a look at mankind, and the undeniable fact that we may have different languages, different cultures, and so many different idealogies, but at the end of the day we are all the same, searching for our connection with the Loving energy of our Creator.

So, to all my really strong and staunch conservative friends, I love you all, and I don't judge you ... please extend me the same in return ... or do I need to send my Momma over (of course that would be in ghost form, but that might be even scarier, huh)?

:) Tiff

Music and The Band

2008-02-19T10:26:00.005-06:00

After meeting some really cool musicians this weekend I got to thinking. I don't feel we value music enough. And, I think it's got to be hard to struggle against so many odds to try and make it in the music industry. The business side of it must be really hard ... or at least that's my perspective from a very high altitude.

I think back to junior high when I was in band, playing the flute, and how much fun it was. Then moving to Dallas, and ending up in a hgih school where music was highly underrated, scorned even, and being in the band was a curse that sent you into social siberia. The choir was a slight step up from band, but not much.

My friend Mary (shout out to you girlfirend) is a world renowned Opera Singer, and I applaud her for following her dream and never putting her God given talent on a shelf. When I think of her, and think of my encounter this past weekend, appreciation for those who stick to it wells up in me, and all I can say is Thank You.

You never know how you will affect others, and how others will affect you. And, what impressed me most about the Emerson Drive guys was the complete lack of ego. Which brings me to something my good friend, and mentor, Jim C. burned in my memory "no one person is any better than any other, Love everyone, the more you give the better everyone is." It is this attitude that has shaped my life so remarkably, and when I start to take my self too seriously, or think I'm better, I am reminded we are each individually a thread in the Universal Fabric.

I have to give Dad, Dale, Mom, Vivian, Big Roy, Uncle Ray, and Amama credit for filling my reservoir with love, and giving as well. I've really been blessed with the most amazing teachers and supporters :)

I know I seem to be hammering home the give and take theory these days ... it just seems to be weighing on my heart. I feel the big hands of God (or as my mom called him "the big man upstairs) pushing me, his small child, out in the spotlight to deliver the message. At first I was shy and had a bit of stage fright, but the more I see this working in my own life the stronger I feel about getting out on stage.

And, to wrap this little entry back around full circle, the guys of Emerson Drive get it, and are out there giving ... pay attention to their message :)

Tiff
ps: Pokey, they recorded that song you like that Wynona sings ... I Can Only Imagine ... fire up your itunes account and buy their albums (not just individual songs) trust me every song is really good ... great messages.

Lunar Eclipse

2008-02-18T12:48:00.003-06:00

On Wednesday February 20th we will be able to witness a full lunar eclipse.

The moon will enter the darkest part of the Earth’s shadow at 7:43 p.m. (local Dallas time, which is Central Standard Time) and will be totally eclipsed from 9:01 p.m. to 9:51 p.m. During a total eclipse, the lunar surface often takes on an eerie shade of red that is visible even to the unaided eye.

This will not happen again until 2012 ... It will be a cool sight :). For those of you in Dallas, Dad and I will be presenting a whole show at The Voice of Hope with slideshows, planet replicas, and dvd's. We will be outside with Telescopes as well!

Enjoy the free show! God sure does give us so many great shows!

Hey, got to www.voiceofhope.org and see the pictures after the event.

Positive Power

2008-02-18T11:53:00.004-06:00

Okay, I spent 20 minutes in world wide meditation/prayer (whatever you wish to name it) this morning.

In the silence we were to all focus our love, and positive energy towards peace in Iraq. I have personally experienced the power of prayer, so it was no hard sell for me to join in this global effort.

Give without expecting, and ask for results without wanting control over how it gets done.

My word for the year is SURRENDER. I'm giving up the illusion of control ... and understanding that I'm simply part of the overall plan.

Smile, Laugh, Love

Enjoy the here and now, don't miss today trying to set up your tomorrows.

Tiff

Emerson Drive

2008-02-17T13:08:00.006-06:00

Wow, I had no idea that my blog was public to the whole world, I thought my settings restricted viewing to only those on my list. Clearly I am new to all this.

Due to privacy concerns for the band, I have removed this story, I really thought only people on my list could view this, and would get a kick out of me stumbling onto the band in everyday life. And, I was hoping to share with my firends what really down to earth, honest and sincere guys they are.

My apologies to the guys, clearly I did not have a good handle on the definition of "Fan", derived from the word "fanatic", which means that there are people out there scouring the internet for anything having to do with the band on a second by second basis. Holy Cow! I mean really, that was amazing how my little feel good story got picked up so quick.

I will not retract that it was great to meet y'all, and how impressed I am with your music. And, I look forward to your next visit to Texas :). Safe Travels, Good luck with your album recording, happy energy, and lot's of smiles.

Again, thanks for your music.

Tiff

And, for those in my inner circle, contact me, I will tell you all about how really grounded and gifted these guys are, and how very conscious they are of everyone other than themselves ....

Everyone - Check out the band on:

http://emersondrive.musiccitynetworks.com/

Buy their music, I highly recommend them :)

Peace Out ... Tiff

Giving

2008-02-16T11:05:00.003-06:00

Manipulating and Manuevering your giving in order to set yourself up for getting somthing in return ... this is not really giving. In reading Todd's website, I came to realize this truth, and began to see how I have done this in the past, and more recently how it's been done to me.

Again, as I have said in previous posts, you reap what you sow. And, I think I'm nearing the end of this lesson, and will soon be seeing the seedlings of my life shift popping up and growing in to lovely, flourishing, and fruit bearing plants.

I have also begun to honestly look at all realtionsips and more easily make choices about what is healthy, and what is not. I have been blessed with the ability to more clearly see sincerity and honesty from those who truly want to love me for who I am, not what they can take from me. And, these people want to be in community with me for unselfish reasons.

I am thankful now to so easily see honest intentions, and know the difference between that and the taking through ulterior motives.

If I could encourage anyone in anything, I would ask that everyone spend some time with themselves and allow their hearts to start speaking the truth, so that they would deal with others from a place of unselfish love.

Okay, my time on the soap box is up for today :)

Give Away A Dollar A Day

2008-02-15T11:37:00.002-06:00

Okay folks ... Todd has his site up and running! Check it out!

http://www.giveawayadollaraday.com/

So many stories of joy and giving have come from this concept ... join the fun if you want, you won't be sorry :)

The Balance of Life

2008-02-15T08:10:00.004-06:00

I have discovered in the infinite wisdom of the Universe, everything always balances out ... if there is not balance, things end. This doesn't mean that it's constantly in balance, it means that there is give and take, ebb and flow, and that we are all a part of this great process.

Here's the deal, for example, to have good friends, you must be a good friend. Friendship is not a one way street, neither party can be either just the taker, or just the giver. The same goes for a marriage, your family, your job, your community, your participation with this planet, the universe, or even your relationship with God (this is what I choose to call our higher being/Creator ... as I always say you could call him/her Buddha, Goddess, The Divine, The Creator, Jehova ... you get my point).

Like I said earlier there must be a balance. We must all think about the choices we make, how we are going to feel about what we do, how it will affect others, and in the grand scheme of things, is what I'm doing sending out positive energy into the world? Is what I'm doing helping, or hurting?

Ask youserlf, every day, am I being fair in all I do? Am I giving and receiveing with grace and love? Am I loving without conditions?

If you find yourself stuck, if things aren't going the way you would like, maybe it's time to take your mind off of yourself, put yourself in perspective as part of the WHOLE, and think about what you are giving out. Whether you recieve that message better from the Bible, from Buddha, or from any self help Guru, it's still the same message:

"You reap what you sow."
"You attract what you give."
"Energy flows where attention goes."
"Your thoughts become reality."

Happy Friday to you all!

"I Saw God Today" - New George Strait

2008-02-11T08:58:00.002-06:00

Yes everyone, The King - George Strait - has a new song out. You don't even have to be a great predictor to know this song will skyrocket to number one and sit there for quite some time.

Let me just say that today, a gorgeous sunny 70 degree day in Dallas (rare), I heard the song and was immediately caused to take a look around at the simple everyday ways in which our Creator and Friend presents himself.

I happened to be out on a bike ride and saw two different cars pull over to help an elderly woman who was disoriented wandering around in the middle or a busy intersection. I saw a perfect day unfold with bright sunshine, birds singing, flowers blooming, and a sense of the grand scheme of things came into sharp focus.

My wish for all of you is that you see God in everything you do, that you accept we are all part of his plan, and that there is perfect symetry in everything. I wish for everyone the grace to learn the lesson the first time, to love freely, and find your purpose :)

Definition of Insanity

2008-01-27T21:22:00.000-06:00

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, and expecting different results.

Benjamin Franklin

How to Catch a Cold

2008-01-14T10:07:00.000-06:00

Okay Ya'll, listen up. I have just caught a cold, and I'm not too thrilled about it. So, let's review how this happens and discuss your part as a human being in this world.

If you are sick/contagious DON'T GO OUT IN PUBLIC!!!!!! That way, the rest of us won't catch it!

This really is a simple theory, it's not new, we've known how disease spreads for years now. It spreads through human interaction ... if you are sick, stay home! Keep your kids home! Don't spread it!

In these days of technology, there really is absolutely no reason whatsoever that you cannot stay home and work from the confines of your own house.

Stay home, keep your germs to yourself, and the rest of us won't catch it :)

snifle, sniffle, sniffle ....

In The Starting Gate

2008-01-10T12:20:00.000-06:00

"I'm in the starting gate and I don't know what kind of beast I'm on! Do I need a saddle? Or, do I need to just grab a hunk of mane and hang on tight? Should I pack a lunch? Is this a long race, or a sprint? I just don't know, but the gate is opening, and I'm on the beast ... here we go!"

Whitney Justice

Santa Fe

2008-01-08T15:17:00.000-06:00

Colorado was so cold that I cut the trip short and headed down to Santa Fe. I was blessed to meet a new friend Estealla Loretto, an artist of great renown, and spend time visiting the galleries.

Visit Estella's site at www.estellaloretto.com you will thank me!

New Years Eve

2008-01-01T00:17:00.000-06:00

I sit here in Crested Butte with Cindy Stamer and her family. We went to dinner this evening at Cowboy's, and the service was atrocious ... but the company far outweighed the lousy service, and we all had a great time!

When we got back to the house, I pulled up pictures of myself at age 7 and blew away the crowd at how much the youngest child Niki and I look alike.

As I sit here and reflect on the year it doesn't take me long to realize I am truly blessed and fortunate, and that there are so many things to be thankful for.

Thanks to all who are in my life and I look forward to another outstanding year.

What if?

2007-11-26T13:44:00.000-06:00

What if, instead, you see things going right, and not wrong? What if things will be better, and not worse.

What if we thought this way?

What if you saw the outcome as great, and not awful? What if the person was happy you fixed it, not mad that you tried without permission?

Would the good of the whole be served?

What if you saw Triumphs instead of Traps? What if you saw Possibilities, and not Pitfalls?

What if you let go, truly let go, and just believed?

What if you accepted yourself like God does? What if you loved others the same way?

What would you do with that freedom?

What's stopping you?

Cars, Bicycles and People on Foot

2007-11-16T15:11:00.000-06:00

I hopped on my bike yesterday, and as I started for White Rock Lake, I was very aware, once again, of the challenges cyclists face in the city. It has been an adjustment for me moving from rural Colorado to the busy, and crammed up spaces of Dallas. Cycling is just not as much fun here.

Riding your bicycle in the city involves sharing the road. I get it, but the motorists don't, and while I'm in tune with sharing, Dallas motorists are not. And, the "bike path" (let's just say this term is inappropriately used) is more like a boulevard for the walkers, runners, and pets that are along for the sheer thrill factor.

On today's ride I decided to look at cycling from their perspective. First I considered cycling from the motorists point of view. In this frame of mind I began to realize how excruciatingly painful it is to move your foot from the accelerator to the brake. I mean really, the effort required is downright draining. I also began to sympathize with the motorist's plight of having to get their vehicle back up to speed after having to slow down for those pesky bike riders. The loss of those milliseconds is just plain criminal.

And, curses, it is so hard to scoot over slightly to pass them. I also began to see how much fun it is to come screaming up behind them and honk my horn ... it just doesn't get any funnier than seeing one of them almost crash from fright ... yes, this was big fun.

When I finally made it to the bike path at White Rock Lake I encountered a walker with his dog. The dog was on one of those retractable leashes, which really isn't a leash. As I approached I politely informed the man/dog combo that I was coming up from behind, and would be passing on their left. The dog leaped into my path, and that nifty little retractable leash clotheslined me. Down I went.

Once I regained myself, discussed the safety issues and possible flaws of said leash with the owner of the not so well trained beast, I continued on what I was fearing was a cursed day out on my bike. So, in keeping with the theme of the day I put myself in the shoes of the people on foot.

I determined that it was just way too difficult, and zero fun for me, to walk in the grass beside the bike path. I decided that the city of Dallas had put in this paved path as a giant sidewalk, and that my pet would much prefer to walk on this hard surface than to feel the cool grass on his paws. And, those cyclists should ride on the road, after all they are driving a vehicle.

Yes, and by all means I should run in the middle of the path, or better yet walk on the opposite side of traffic to really gum things up. Yep, and if those cyclists weren't going so fast, they would be able to avoid my beloved pet, and they would be able to react.

Ah, I began to get it once I viewed the situation from everyone else's perspective. My mind started trying to convince me it was a losing battle, that by choosing to move to a city (particularly a city that is not very health conscious or environmentally aware) I had put an end to the joy I derived from cycling.

I thought all was lost until I had to make a quick run to Ft. Worth. My mind chastised me for even considering bringing my bike along, but I did it anyway (there's a Martina McBride song about this). After I had conducted my business, I suited up and headed out. I regained my faith after going for almost two hours, part of it in dead on rush hour, and not having one car give me a hard time, and the folks in the park actually walked with their pets in the grass.

Optimism was restored, or at least I found out that there are cities in Texas that have considerate people.

The Universe at Work

2007-11-15T14:11:00.000-06:00

It’s hard to wrap your brain around the concept that everything that happens in your life is what you asked for. That was my first response to The Secret. But, as I spend time clearing my thoughts, self examining, and being brutally honest with myself, I see it actually does work exactly that way.

I also discovered through this process that when I made a vow to remove the negatives from my life, it meant saying goodbye to some other relationships as well. And, oddly enough that process was not painful whatsoever. It's amazing how this whole thing really works, and what sometimes appears as self-sabotage, is really God delivering what you have asked for.

It's really quite simple if you think about it, God (the divine, the universe, or whatever you choose to call our higher being) really does answer every single request, the thing you have to wrap your mind around is that he may not do it in exactly the way we scripted it out. Here is where I will lose people like myself that have to go process this statement/theory for a bit.

My own conscious brain still jumps in sporadically and argues this point. For instance: Why on earth would I have asked for my husband to have an affair, ruin our marriage, and threaten my life (of course, for legal purposes, I have to say that this question is based on my opinion of what happened)?

No, I would never consciously bring this on myself, but here’s the thing, as I journey back over the years and look at my life objectively I can see how my thoughts, particularly my angry ones, fed right into the law of attraction. And, although I test as a completely right brained thinker, I get quantum physics, particularly when it applies to the human existence and our role in the universe. So, when I look back and put the pieces of my life in place on the giant puzzle table it all starts to match up pretty quickly.

This past weekend I was blessed to be connected with a group of folks at an UnSeminar in Austin. I'm still processing all my thoughts and feelings on the experience, however I can say that it was a tremendous combination of solid business tactical information wrapped with a big giant splashy spiritual bow.

What I will sign off with today is the Mantra the Dr. Joe Vitale put in place over the weekend:

I love you
I'm Sorry
Please Forgive Me
Thank You

To know more about the origins of this Mantra, please visit http://www.amazon.com/Zero-Limits-Secret-Hawaiian-System/dp/0470101474 which will take you to Amazon.com and Dr. Joe's book on Zero Limits.

Gratitude: the quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful