Happy New Year and Welcome to my updated website!
My friend, Lucille, has made this new look possible. She is far more more technologically inclined than I and has been gently nudging me to finish up the writing so she can put the last minute touches on the design. And she has the patience of Job. For that I am deeply grateful and even more humbled that she will partner with me in 2014 and free me from unnecessary frustration!
Isn’t it a wonderful truth that each day provides opportunities for improvement and renewal within the inner sanctuary of our hearts and minds and in our world?
It is my hope that this refreshed website is a bit more succinct but still gives you the sense of inner tranquility that we long for. We live in a very stressful world that, especially as parents, pulls us in so many directions we tend to forget what we already know deep down in our hearts. We often feel splintered or “off” and edgy. So, states of “calm and comfort” are essential ingredients in being able to let go of our accumulated baggage including fears, anxieties, chronic guilt, and discouragement.
It is also my hope for you to discover new insights and perspectives that will deepen your understanding of yourself and others. Understanding and timeless truths (universal principles) provide a strong foundation for personal growth and improved relationships – with yourself , with God, your family. and others.
Together, we can turn “tough” into doable and enjoyable.
Through the years TSJ has attracted people (“peeps”) who want to live, teach, and parent more mindfully or consciously. You have been people who want to be wiser, live more bravely, leave a legacy of love and wisdom for future generations. It doesn’t get better than that and I am excited to journey with you again in 2014.
From time to time, however, each of us needs encouragement and help to defeat fear, forgive failure, and embrace possibility. There is a part of us that longs for the unabashed joy and abandon that would make us able to stand on the mountaintop and sing joyously of the simple things of life like Julie Andrews and the children in the Sound of Music.
Here at The Shared Journey headquarters we are real. Life is tough at times and we face similar challenges that you face. My own life story has not been free from suffering and pain. The same is true for you. In fact, even now we are going into 2014 facing some significant cancer treatments for my beloved husband, Tom. (His relentless encouragement and support is the backbone of this business.) We are regular people. Our parenting has been loving but not perfect. We are a “blended” family and experience the work and understanding that it takes to build quality relationships.
Finally, it is good to remember there are many resources available to inform and inspire us when our well runs low. Seeking and accepting help and scouting out resources is a wise part of personal development. In fact it is essential.
My personal resources range from experts in many areas, the Bible, books of all kinds, Mother Nature, faith in a loving God, to friends and family and finally, Solomon, our TSJ mascot, (an adorable stuffed sheep). Solomon is here to help us all touch the child within. In that uncomplicated state it is easier for us to remember who we are beneath all our defenses. Be sure to read about Solomon here.
Solomon’s advice for the year ahead . . .
When life gets chaotic and scary – we need comfort and courage
When it gets confusing and frustrating – we need guidance
When its daily demands get overwhelming – we need stress release.
When it gets discouraging – we need encouragement
When it gets dark and the path is unclear – we need someone to shine a light
When we fall down or get in a rut – we need someone to help us get back up
When we get caught in prickly grass and briars (bad thoughts) – we need to be freed.
We can do all this and much more for each other by sharing the journey.
So Welcome to the New Year and The Shared Journey Revised !
