Raging Rivers Here in New Mexico we have been in the middle of a multiple year drought, one of the worst in recent history. And then, in August, the monsoon season came and started to bring some relief. However, we have now received more than we can deal with. In past week alone we have had more rain than we have had in the past three years. And hence it has not been able to soak into the ground as it came upon us so fast. We have rivers flooding in Las Vegas, NM, roads collapsing in Truth or Consequences, and homes flooded in La Union. And as I am sure you know, our neighboring state of Colorado experienced tremendous flooding as well and to a much greater degree. The flooding there is causing a new reality for thousands of families as they are displaced after having their homes uprooted by the raging rivers. Our hearts go out to these families during this time of chaos and loss. In time, a new order will emerge. People will help people. Neighbors will help neighbors. The families affected by this act of Mother Nature will move on in their lives. They will build new homes, new roads, new structures, and new infrastructures. And they will find reason to hope again, and a reason to be grateful once more. Although most of us may not have experienced or lived through a flood, we may be able to relate to the experience of being overwhelmed from time to time with information, maintenance issues, relationship problems, financial concerns, a job loss, health crises, or any combination of these. It may seem like our lives are flooded with issues to be solved. At times like these, swift action is a needed response to move us out of the immediate challenge or danger. And we may need help to accomplish this. But after the "storm" is over, it is up to us to make changes, sometimes minor, sometimes major, or else we may find ourselves in a new flood of problems to be overcome. We often do not see it this way. We may think that our "floods" are random or of someone else's making. Usually though "our floods" are not acts of Mother Nature nor are they someone else's creation. Instead they are of our own making. Only when we raise our consciousness of this truth, will we be able to make new decisions, take new actions, and transform for the better. But it is up to us. Questions for you to consider this week: 1) Is there something in your life are you avoiding? 2) What seems to keep happening to you over and over? 3) Does it seem that issues are piling up? If so, it may be time to make a change. What might you do to create the positive change that is needed in your life? Chances are you may need to start with a shift in perspective. Here's how: 1. Start a gratitude practice. Move into the feeling of gratitude each day at the start of your day. 2. Forgive yourself of your past mistakes, actions or failures to take action. Do not beat yourself up. 3. Accept responsibility for making a positive change. First, know you can make the positive change that is required. All positive change starts with positive thought. Think of one now. A meditation practice will help. If you do not have one, get started today. 4. Take action on that ONE thing you want to change. Make a commitment to it. Start the diet. Cut back on spending. Start an exercise program. Stop criticizing others and start appreciating the people you have in your life. Notice good. Develop your plan and follow it. 5. Give. Help someone out. Volunteer. Give to a cause. Get involved in an organization that helps young people, the disadvantaged, or the elderly. Know that you are making a difference. Then repeat these steps. We may all at one time or another experiences a "raging river" in our life. Recognize that it gives you an opportunity to bring a greater order into your life, a higher truth, and that it is your call to action. What are you called to act upon this week? Help For Colorado Here are three organizations that are helping the families affected by the flooding in Colorado. Donate if you feel so moved. They do need our help. Red Cross of Colorado http://www.redcross.org/co/denver United Way of the Foothills (Boulder Area) https://www.unitedwayfoothills.org/floodrelief Salvation Army http://www.imsalvationarmy.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769) and designate "Colorado Floods." |