Thoughtful Tuesdays: The Future Is Not What It Used to Be

Change. Notice if  that word stirred up any emotions for you? Were they pleasant feelings or uncomfortable ones? I know for me that word brings up more uncomfortable feelings than the ones I enjoy. I'm learning to embrace this word though as I focus on the opportunities 'change'  can bring. My future sure is not what it used to be even a few weeks ago. As I sit here in the 'in between' - or as my wise and inspirational friend, Dominique, would call 'the unknown' -I struggle knowing that there is only so much I can do at this point and the rest relies on my trust in the universe. For me, I am aware I need to live one day at a time, one moment at a time. Focusing on the power of my thoughts and how they can help navigate my day. There was a time when I had none of these skills at all. Where I had no trust in the process of change. I was unable to see the opportunities because I was so consumed in the fear of it. Like all of these skills offered through Douglas Bloch's book, it takes time, practice, and a lot of patience with one's self to be able to experience the good these skills can bring into your life. Are you ready to learn some new skills, pull out the welcome mat and invite 'change' with open arms? Are you willing to see where the wind blows you next?

The following is an exact excerpt from the book Listening To Your Inner Voice by Douglas Bloch. I in no way possess any ownership of the following. I am simply sharing the thoughts, expressions and words of an author who has inspired me.

The Future Is Not What It Used to Be

With the pace of change continuing to accelerate, the future is not what it used to be. From one moment to the next, no one can be certain of anything. Your job, your marriage, your relationship to your children - none of these will be the same next year, next month, or even next week. 


How does one survive this changing landscape? First, by being flexible and adaptable - ready to change course at any moment. Be prepared to "roll with the punches" and release your old attachments or current expectations. 


Second, practice living one day at a time. Realize that the only thing you can really affect is how you feel this instant.  By focusing on the present moment,  you can continue to experience peace and joy - no matter how the outer circumstances may change.


Finally, know that the removal of the old securities opens the way to new opportunities. Human consciousness is moving to ever higher levels of awareness. How much easier is the journey is when we flow with the process of change. 

Affirmations

1. I welcome all change into my life.
2. I am able to adapt to any situation I encounter.
3. I am given just what I need for optimal learning experience.
4. No matter what life deals me, I always have the winning hand.
5. Spirit guides and directs my path each step of the way.
6. Your Own ________________.

Happy International Women's Day!!

Today marks a day of empowerment for women. In a world where society has broken us down and the media has dehumanized us, it is now in our hands to be the change we want and need to see. The most wonderful part is how easy it is to create these changes. No matter if you are a man or a woman, a child or an adult, YOU have the opportunity to change the world we live in! How exciting is that?

Each year around the world, International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8. Thousands of events occur not just on this day but throughout March to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. - http://www.internationalwomensday.com/theme.asp

International Women's Day has been celebrated since the early 1900's. Women began to stand up to the inequality and oppression they faced.   " ...in 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay and voting rights." (website) . This year the celebration continues with the theme 'Connecting Girls, Inspiring Futures'  and while the United Nations has declared their theme as 'Empower Rural Women – End Hunger and Poverty' , it is encouraged that others create their own themes as well. If you click here you can find various themes from around the world that have been submitted. With over 1542 events planned for IWD, you can select your country and location here to learn what's available near you. 


You can celebrate at home as well, or from your work place. Take a moment to let the women in your life know how much you appreciate them. How proud you are of their accomplishments. Be aware of how you speak to and about other women. If you are a woman, take a moment to reflect on the successes you have created in your life, of the milestones you have reached. Be proud of yourself for everything you have overcome in your journeys.

It breaks my heart when I hear women calling other women derogatory names, and how easily these names roll of ftheir tongues during casual conversation. Loose Garments, a blog focused on feminist culture, human rights, and cool women, posted a video created by a 13 year old girl who speaks up about slut shaming. This young woman will make you think twice about your choice of words and is so inspiring. Loose Garments has other must see videos, and their blog posts are always a good read.

I see girls who are afraid to leave their homes until their hair and make up are perfectly done, until the right amount of skin is showing, and the number on the scale is acceptable to popular demand. I see lives being destroyed as women attempt to live up to the impossible expectations forced upon them. Let Lindsay Gemmell inspire you. She is a 23 year old Eating Disorder Recovery Coach,  who is making changes with her passion for life and her unconditional, genuine love for others. She shares her incredibly positive attitude through words of motivation, affirmations and wisdom from experience. "..what does beauty mean to you? Everytime you disagree with the fashion industries idea of "beauty" you are saying YES to LIFE! and when you say yes to live..you accept love, happiness, laughter and JOY into your heart..making you better able to share those qualities with others. True beauty comes from within. When we accept ourselves as we are inside and out, with all of our unique qualities, we will find and be living in TRUE beauty! just as every woman deserves to."

If we, as individuals started to change the way we talk about and speak to women, if we, as individuals started to change our expectations of the women in our lives, if we, as individuals started to  challenge society telling us to be competitive with other women, if we as individuals started to say it is wrong to objectify women, then we, as individuals would be making changes in the world, and through these actions we can have a positive influence on people who we may interact with, and this may start a beautiful chain reaction. 

So today, on International Women's Day, how are you going to celebrate? Who are you going to talk to?

If you have a story about a woman who inspires you, please share it in the comments below. I want to hear their stories!