Flight of the Hawk

Your Daily Tolle

2012-01-29T09:35:00.000-08:00

" A stone, and more easily a flower or a bird, could show you the way back to God, to the Source, to yourself. When you look at it or hold it & let it be without imposing a word of mental label on it, a sense of awe, of wonder, arises within you. Its essence silently communicates itself to you and reflects your own essence back to you." Eckhart Tolle

photo by Victoria Marina-Tompkins "Heart Line Bear Stone" Navarro River

Favorites from the Archives

2012-01-22T09:11:00.000-08:00

Letting Go of our Stories

Thursday, October 15, 2009

I just heard of a story which I would like to share today.

In “A New Earth”, Eckhart Tolle describes a story entitled "The Duck With The Human Mind". He says that when two ducks get into a fight, it never lasts too long, because the ducks will separate and float off in opposite directions. “The duck will flap its wings vigorously a few times, thus releasing the surplus energy that built up during the fight. After they flap their wings, they float on peacefully, as if nothing had ever happened. If the duck had a human mind, it would keep the fight alive by thinking, by story-making. This would probably be the duck’s story: “I don’t believe what he just did. He came to within five inches of me. He thinks he owns this pond. He has no consideration for my private space. I’ll never trust him again. Next time he’ll try something else just to annoy me. I’m sure he’s plotting something already. But I’m not going to stand for this. I’ll teach him a lesson he won’t forget.”

Tolle summarizes, “But this is how most humans live all the time. No situation or event is ever really finished. ...We are a species that has lost its way. Everything natural, every flower or tree, and every animal have important lessons to teach us if we would only stop, look, and listen. Our duck’s lesson is this: Flap your wings - which translates as “let go of the story” - and return to the only place of power: the present moment.”

This story illustrates how our minds get caught up in making up stories about our experiences. We may in the moment find ourselves feeling deeply;

Our dog has just died and we feel intense grief. We reunite with a lover and feel intense joy. We fly into a rage when someone crosses our boundaries.

All of these feelings are valid. However, it is our thoughts that follow the emotions that lead to the tangles I wrote about in my blog "The Life Tapestry". And, it's what we do with these thoughts that make all the difference. In the moment that we notice our thoughts going down that all too familiar pathway of "story", we can stop, take a deep breath, and return to our center. If we are still feeling the intensity of the emotions, we can "flap our wings" and release the energy just as the duck did. It is then we can return to the present moment, to our "place of power". We can return to our Pond.

Duck Dance by ViaMoi

Your Daily Rumi

2012-01-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

“Today, like every other day,

we wake up empty and frightened.

Don't open the door to the study and begin reading.

Take down the dulcimer.

Let the beauty we love be what we do.

There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.”

Rumi

Thought for Today

2012-01-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

‎"The aim of life is to live,

and to live means to be aware,

joyously, drunkenly,

serenely, divinely Aware. "

Henry Miller

Our New Environmental Blog

2012-01-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We have started a new environmental blog, What the Hummingbird Said. It is dedicated to providing education regarding climate change and other world issues in order to help us all make changes to better support life on our fragile planet.

Please take a moment to check out the new blog and Follow!

What the Hummingbird Said

All the best,

Victoria

Three Sizes of Truth

2011-12-30T12:05:00.000-08:00

It was in the spring of my 28th year when I remembered that reincarnation was true.

Several days prior I had asked a family friend if one had to believe in reincarnation to send your kids to a Waldorf school. His response was puzzlement! Looking back on the months before that conversation I had actually been asking some questions but with no definitive rational answer which I could wrap my mind around. I couldn't think my way to an solution! Then one morning I woke up, opened my eyes and thought "Reincarnation....Yea, that's right".

What I have just shared was the intersection of what the Michaels call a Personal truth (my own perceptions), Sleep or a World truth, and Reincarnation, a Universal Truth.

They call this the 3 Sizes of Truth:

Personal Truth: What is true for an individual including preferences, perceptions, attitudes, their personal history. Can change during a lifetime.

World Truth: What is true on this planet Earth. Examples are gravity, atmospheric conditions, exchange, the Sun.

Universal Truth: What is true throughout the Universe. Love and Fear are examples of Universal truth as is Reincarnation and the number 7.

One of the most significant points of conflict between people has to do with varying personal truths or what Michael calls "Perceptual Differentiation". We see through our own eyes and what one person sees is not necessarily the same as what another sees, yet both are sure they are correct! A helpful study is to compare and contrast what is true for you, what you can validate through experience, study, and observation as well as what is true for others. The next step is to allow them to have their own perceptions without the need to change them in any way even if you think you are right! Recognizing where perceptual differentiations of personal truth exist is the first step in reducing conflicts and creating more harmony in our lives and in our world.

Peace to Us All

2011-12-24T12:52:00.000-08:00

We Share Our Fragile

and Beautiful Planet

with All Living Things

Peace to Us All

That Which We Witness

2011-12-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

"That which we witness,

we are forever changed by,

and once witnessed

we can never go back."

Angeles Arrien, Cultural Anthropologist and Author of "The Second Half of Life"

Your Daily Tolle

2011-12-14T15:16:00.000-08:00

Be free today my friends in all that you do...

“The past has no power over the present moment.”

― Eckhart Tolle

The Secret Garden

2011-12-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

"And now here is my secret, a very simple secret; it is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye."

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Your Daily Hafiz: In the Morning

2011-12-04T15:48:00.000-08:00

"In the morning

When I began to wake

It happened again.

That feeling

That You, Beloved,

Had stood over me all night.

Keeping watch,

That feeling

That as soon as I began to stir

You put Your lips on my forehead

And lit a Holy Lamp

Inside my Heart."

- Hafiz

Searching for God

2011-12-01T19:57:00.000-08:00

"I searched for God and found only myself

I searched for myself and found only God"

Sufi Proverb

Coming Back Down to our Fragile Oasis

2011-11-27T10:24:00.000-08:00

Take a moment to listen dear ones....

http://www.nasa.gov/topics/shuttle_station/features/Peter_Gabriel_Oasis.html

note: Music by Peter Gabriel, video c. 2011 NASA

Your Daily Hafiz

2011-11-24T09:22:00.000-08:00

"I do not
Want to step so quickly
Over a beautiful line on God's palm
As I move through the earth's
Marketplace
Today.

I do not want to touch any object in this world
Without my eyes testifying to the truth
That everything is
My Beloved.

Something has happened
To my understanding of existence
That now makes my heart always full of wonder
And kindness.

I do not
Want to step so quickly
Over this sacred place on God's body
That is right beneath your
Own foot

As I
Dance with
Precious life
Today."

Hafiz, Sufi Poet

From the Archives: Going with the Flow

2011-11-21T08:39:00.000-08:00

Clients will often ask me how they can create what they want in their lives. They believe they are clear on what they want because they think about it all the time, write about in a journal, seek advice, recite affirmations and so on and yet whatever their goal is , it remains elusive.

The solution is deceptively simple: It is the "Wu Wei" of Taoist thought or "The Way" which is non resistance to that which is. Accept the moment with the knowledge that it is perfect.

How do you know that this moment is the "right" moment for you? Because it exists.

Take for example a day when you want to sit in your garden and enjoy the beauty of nature yet you struggle internally with the need to work. Accepting that there is time to work with joyousness and knowing that there is time to sit in the garden also relieves us of the struggle that ties us up internally. There will be another time for the garden or work, just as there will be time for many other things.

A helpful question might be "Which way is the River flowing here"? This is to say the natural flow of energies are in the direction of work, then accepting that as a positive choice can relieve one of the anxiety of struggle. If it is flowing in the direction of the garden, then you can make a choice to fully experience that moment with openness and delight without another thought of work!

Each and every thought is a choice, you can choose to think positively, or not. It's up to you.

Navarro River Photograph by Victoria Marina-Tompkins

Lao Tzu Chapter 9

2011-11-16T12:02:00.000-08:00

CHAPTER 9

"Brim-fill the bowl,

it'll spill over.

Keep sharpening the blade,

you'll soon blunt it.

Nobody can protect

a house full of gold and jade.

Wealth, status, pride,

are their own ruin.

To do good, work well, and lie low

is the way of the blessing."

Lao Tzu Chapter 19

2011-11-13T11:57:00.000-08:00

Raw Silk and Uncut Wood

Stop being holy, forget being prudent

It'll be a hundred times better for everyone.

Stop being altruistic, forget being righteous,

people will remember what family feeling is.

Stop planning, forget making a profit,

there won't be any thieves and robbers.

But even these three rules

needn't be followed; what works reliably

is to know the raw silk,

hold the uncut wood.

Need little,

want less.

Forget the rules.

Be untroubled.

Translation by Ursula K. Le Guin

Tao Te Ching 37

2011-11-12T17:40:00.000-08:00

The Tao Te Ching of Lao Tzu

Chapter 37

"Eternal Tao doesn't do anything yet it leaves nothing undone.

If you abide by it,

everything in existence will transform itself.

When, in the process of self-transformation,desires are aroused,

calm them with nameless simplicity.

When desires are dissolved in the primal presence,

peace and harmony naturally occur,and the world orders itself."

Taking the First Step

2011-11-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase,

just take the first step". Martin Luther King

Beauty

2011-10-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

"Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful,

we must carry it with us or we find it not."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Walking the Land of the Grey Clouds

2011-10-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

"Those who have shared their near-death experiences say that yes, there is life after death and that we do return for another life after the present one is over. Still, people remain puzzled and unsure as to what the truth really is. Will we return in another life, or is this all there is? Many of us decide what we believe, some don’t know for sure, and some don’t even care, leaving those who do to proclaim that they know the truth. As long as we are alive and on this Earth, we will continue to “walk in the land of the grey clouds” until we die and only then will we remember the truth of what our souls have known all along."

Photo from Hubble Telescope 2 Galaxies Collide "The Rose"

Your Daily Rumi

2011-10-19T15:21:00.000-07:00

"Do not be satisfied with the stories
that come before you. Unfold your own myth".
-Rumi

The Life Focus (Book Excerpt)

2011-10-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

note: This excerpt discusses the time period following the completion of the mid life transition, a significant change usually occurring sometime between the ages of 35 and 50. It is during this transition that the individual comes to understand the true personality and discards the false self, aligning with the life task that begins in earnest after the transit is complete.

"As the fourth transition comes to a close and if it has been completed in the positive, then the Life Focus begins to manifest as a desire to align with the soul’s purpose for this lifetime. The next twenty plus years will now be devoted to accomplishing this task and without fear obstructing progress, the life will begin to unfold in a way that allows the authentic personality to express itself clearly with the task in the forefront.

The task is not necessarily work related and can include themes

such as personal power, teamwork, the application of personal truths,

stability, and structure, all of which could be experienced through

personal as well as professional relationships. I often remind clients

that the life focus is the life focus, not the work focus! There is often a

strong desire on the part of spiritually motivated individuals to manifest

their true work through their daily job, but that is not necessarily the

plan of essence. Fortunately, there will be many years to explore

and develop the task with many options to choose from.

The years following the midlife transition are not always picture

perfect. A wise sage once told me, “Honey, I tried to tell you that

everything won’t be roses after you finish the monad.” How right

she was. Life happens, challenges come your way, and you do

your best to deal with them. Still, after a positive outcome, the true

self is available and expressed in a way that it was not before, and

fears can be more easily recognized for what they are rather than

the truths that they present themselves to be. It may take a few

years to reach your stride after completing the monad for while the

official integration period may take several months, the process of

inculcation of this monad is an ongoing one and the application of

perceptions grows over time. Once the seeds have been planted,

they will continue to grow over the course of the next several decades

and bloom when the life focus has been completed."

Excerpted from Spiritual Turning Points: A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life Transitions c. 2011

Your Daily Rumi

2011-10-05T08:57:00.000-07:00

"Only from the heart can you touch the sky". -Rumi

Michael on the Astral Plane and Dreams

2011-09-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Question: Could Michael please say more about why we need the astral plane for dreaming?

Michael: "The astral plane is as is known here composed of malleable materials that allows a fragment to experiment with various forms in such as way as to promote the expansion of ideas as well as the revisiting of previous experiences.

In addition the astral plane is the area where fragments who not physically extant are present in between lives and with whom dream contact may be made. And, this plane also presents or serves as a meeting ground for not only humanoid fragments to interact but also other species to convene with both their own and others such as humans. This plane is for all intents and purposes extremely flexible in its adaptability and thereby provides humans and other sentient species with opportunity for learning through experience which is not available while physically extant.

For example, a fragment may dream of constructing a simple piece of furniture and during the course of several dreams try various solutions to the puzzle of what is the best approach. If this task were approached during waking hours then the solution might then remain elusive due to the need to try many different variables, some of which could in fact be delayed due to lack of physical plane materials but readily available if worked on with astral plane materials. This is not to say that the astral plane is the only method through which to solve problems for this is not true, but it is an effective one.

Another example is a fragment who died a tragic death, short circuited in the recent past by warfare. The newly extant fragment could then use the astral plane to reconstruct the past event of death and this might include various metaphors such as falling off a bridge or being trapped under a house, each references to the past life ending. These dream images can then be brought into conscious awareness where the fragment might process the emotions brought on by the dream, and through which some of the intensity of the emotions could be released. Another type of astral plane interaction would include with the fragment’s own essence who might choose to appear as a wise man, gypsy woman, artist, or other archetype in order to communicate information to the personality and this is especially true during times of transition. Fragments who are deceased and astral plane focused may also use the dreamscape to communicate to extant fragments. As you can see, there are many uses and the astral plane makes available constructive malleability that the others planes do not. We find this truth to be of benefit to many fragments."

c. 2011 Victoria Marina-Tompkins Excerpted from a private session with permission

The Enneagram: What it's like to be a One

2011-09-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning to another chilly autumn day on the coast and, after brewing a cup of hot Peet's coffee, settled down with my Cavalier Spaniels Gracie and Jazz and opened my laptop. I like to review my recent blog posts and think about if I have anything that I'd like to write about and today several past posts on the Enneagram jumped out at me. I wouldn't consider myself an expert on this but I do appreciate the system that gives us insight into how we respond under stress, showing us the roots of our fear based responses as well as how we can bring more joy into our lives.

So today Im going to talk about being a One on the Enneagram but would first like to give you a link where you can read about the system including it's history:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enneagram_of_Personality

Years ago when I was first introduced to the Enneagram I studied it to determine where I fit in. It is a very complex system, and I didn't find it easy to see my place in it although I understood the concepts. Finally I decided to ask my friend Jach Purcel, the Lazaris channel, if Lazaris could shed any light on it for me and they were happy to oblige: "You, Victoria, are a One." I could see that this was true! I then set out to understand the nature of the One archetype and realized soon that the glaring signal that allowed me to validate this piece of channeling was that it is true, I always look at what is out of place in any situation first. If I walk into a room, I will notice if the flowers are wilting, if the carpet needs vacuuming, or if there is dust on the tabletop. But, this is true only if it is MY room, not someone else's. My perfectionistic viewpoint applies (usually) only to that which I am in control of, and not of someone else. I look for error because the ideal of the One is perfection. Let me tell you this is a lot of work to keep everything perfect! I'm kidding of course, but the desire or perhaps the compulsion of the One is to control his or her environment. And when this isn't possible, when others don't live up to this perfection ideal then resentment builds.

Once I understood the nature of the One in myself, then I could validate how I respond to stress and how I respond when in joy. The One disintegrates to the number Four when under stress, withdrawing into melancholy. I am not a depressed person in general, but under stressful situations I do see this tendency in myself. In fact, when people look at the Enneagram for the first time, sometimes they see the number of disintegration first as it is a powerful influence in their life. Also useful here is noticing the Enneagram number which is demonstrated when a person is healthy, which in the case of the number One is Seven. When I am experiencing the energy of seven, I feel social and outgoing, fun loving and enthusiastic, not looking for perfection or noticing error. What a relief! Noticing the stress and health points are very useful and can help you to move out of fear responses and toward integrated health.

Take a moment or two today to look at the Enneagram, it may bring new insights into your day.

To Love Unconditionally

2011-09-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

"This is the point where love becomes possible. We see the other with the eye of the heart, an eye not clouded by fear manifesting as need, jealousy, possessiveness, or manipulation. With the unclouded eye of the heart, we can see the other as other. We can rejoice in the other, challenge the other, and embrace the other without losing our own center or taking anything away from the other. We are always other to each other — soul meeting soul, the body awakened with joy. To love unconditionally requires no contracts, bargains, or agreements. Love exists in the moment-to-moment flux of life."

Marion Woodman, Jungian Analyst and author of Addiction to Perfection.

Your Daily Hafiz

2011-09-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

"And for no reason I start skipping like a child.

And for no reason i turn into a leaf that is carried so high I kiss the sun's mouth and dissolve.

And for no reason a thousand birds choose my head for a conference table, start passing their cups of wine and their wild songbooks all around.

And for every reason in existence I begin to eternally laugh and love!

When I turn into a leaf and start dancing!

I run to kiss our beautiful friend and I dissolve into the Truth That I Am." -Hafiz

The Second Saturn Return

2011-09-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

The following excerpt it is from Spiritual Turning Points Chapter 5, The Life Review. This period of time following completion of the life task or life work chosen for this incarnation is one of reflection, a review of the life lived. The years just prior to the review are active ones astrologically as the second Saturn return sets the stage by reminding us what we have accomplished in the years since the first return at age 28, and what areas are left to be explored.

Saturn returns typically are challenging to begin with as Saturn brings real world structures up for scrutiny and, depending on where Saturn is in your natal astrological chart, will push hard on you to rework those structures that are in need of repair and redefinition. Areas typically affected are legal affairs, financials, dentistry, and karmas owed to you and by you. Whatever is presented requires a thorough examination in order to see what needs attention, or simply what it is time to let go of. When Saturn comes around to your door, it's time to let go, again, in order to start building a new foundation for the next 28 years.

Here is a brief excerpt from my book:

"More Astrology and the Life Review

During the years between the fourth and fifth transitions, there are

several important transits that help lay the groundwork for the fifth

transition when it begins. The first is the second Saturn return that

happens at age fifty-eight, with the first glimmering coming into view

about a year before. At the first Saturn return at age twenty-eight, the

young adult entered into full adulthood with added responsibilities

and a new life direction and the second return once again reviews

what has been accomplished to date and sets the stage for the next

twenty-nine years.

Second Saturn Return

Another Report Card, Age Fifty-eight

Saturn has a firm hand and clear eyes, not caring much for

touchy feely reasons why this or that didn’t happen, tending instead

to view events in terms of black or white.

Did it work, or did it not? Is it time to let go of what you have

been dragging around for the past ten years? Will you need this in

the next phase of life? Saturn looks at what you will require to create

a solid foundation upon which to build over the next three decades

and doesn’t particularly care how you feel about it! The fifty-ninth

year is a time for review, not quite time (usually) for the fifth transition,

but it does a thorough job of culling what isn’t necessary. It also

is a time for achievement as rewards of recognition are bestowed

at work, books are written and published, and advancements and

promotions are made. If you have done the work, this is the time

you reap the rewards."

Thought for Today: The Universe

2011-09-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

"Though this hut is small, it contains the universe."

Sekito Kisen, Zen Master

Unity

2011-09-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

"In the monastery of your heart and body, you have a temple where all buddhas unite." Milarena

States of Being: Bliss

2011-09-05T12:23:00.000-07:00

"We will remind you here that the state of bliss is the most natural state of being and one that essence exists in as a matter of course."

The Michael Entity

The River

2011-08-31T15:18:00.000-07:00

THE RIVER

"There is a River that flows through us. An ancient, eternal river, unchanging since the beginning of time.

We glide across its surface, we splash in its shallows and dive into into its depths.

It scalds us as a desert hot-spring, and freezes us as an ice-choked arctic stream.

Sometimes we forget, for a moment, to do Good Work. We forget to know how others should live. We forget to fight against evil and injustice. We forget to fear loss and even death.

In these moments—fleeting and ethereal yet essentially beautiful—we may catch a genuine glimpse of the river itself. We see it winding peacefully and undisturbed through the green and tangled undergrowth of our many lives.

It may, for an instant, look like a baby’s smile, a lover’s touch or a flaming sunset. It may sound like a tiny bamboo wind-chime, the wail of a saxophone or the nearly-deafening roar of Niagra falls. It may, for the briefest moment, taste like chocolate or smell like fresh-roasted coffee beans.

We think of it as the one, or two, or one hundred, or ten-thousand things. It is none of these, and all of them. We try to think it looks, sounds, feels, tastes and smells like something, because this is what we know, what we think we need.

The River needs nothing. It carries us always, and invites us to float easily along its shallows or to thrash mightily to survive its rapids—whatever we prefer. It has no messages for us, no secrets, no instructions or duties or threats or restrictions. It flows unceasingly, generously, without thought or opinion. We drink of it as we wish.

It has, of course, no name, but we—often preferring words—might call it Love."

-Anonymous

Stories of Conscious Dying (Book Excerpt)

2011-08-25T07:49:00.000-07:00

Art’s Story

"A sterling example of living life to the fullest during its final stages

was Art, a close friend of my husband, John, and the officiate for

our wedding. He lived a rich and robust ninety years, dying just

a week or so after his birthday. When we first met, he was living

with his second wife, Judith, on the coast near Half Moon Bay, and

while long since retired from the work-a-day world, he was active

and engaging, usually busy with projects that he continued until

just near the end. Art was a modern day Renaissance Man. He was

a storyteller, poet, and believer in the rights of all humans to live

their dreams as he listened closely to what anyone had to say. You

always felt heard by him.

Then, several years before his death, he began to have serious

heart trouble. His active days began to slow somewhat although

he still continued to attend spiritual study groups, local plays, and

enjoyed the company of friends and family. He knew well that he

was dying, but he chose to live each day to the fullest. In fact, just

several years before his death, he recorded a music CD, “Hero,”

which he then gave to his loved ones.

A ninetieth-birthday celebration was planned, and Art was by

then unable to attend, and even though he did get dressed and was

determined to walk across the street to the neighbor’s home, he

wasn’t strong enough. His friends instead dropped by, chatted with

him, and then returned to the party albeit without Art’s presence. A

few days later, he was admitted to the Veteran’s hospital and by the

end of the week he was slipping in and out of consciousness while

remaining peaceful, knowing that his time was drawing to a close.

He did not struggle nor did he complain but instead allowed the

natural course of events to unfold. It was a Saturday afternoon when

John and I went to say our good-byes, and by then his breathing

was more labored, his attention no longer on the physical elements

around him. Judith and friends had brought music that played in the

background and the whole “vibe” was calm and serene.

I had brought my drum, and we formed a small circle around

Art’s bed as I began to sing “We Are the Old Ones,” a chant I wrote

in 1989 while sitting on the Bell Rock Vortex in Sedona, Arizona,

and later recorded in 1994 on “Flight of the Hawk: Shamanic Songs

and Ritual Chants.”

“We are the old ones,

We are the ancient ones,

We are the old ones

And we bring you peace.

Lay your body down

Lay your body down,

Lay your body down

And rest, and rest.”

Soon his wife, Judith, John, and one other close female friend

who had been in spiritual circles with Art all joined in, singing

quietly and helping him find his way back home. Art showed no

resistance at all as he entered the final stages of the transition and

took his last breath several hours later. We will all remember those

last moments with Art, one of the most amazing men John and I

have ever known."

excerpt from Spiritual Turning Points A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life Transitions
All rights Reserved c. 2011

2011-08-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Turning Points- Our Book Trailer!

We are now on Youtube with our new Book Trailer. Please take a moment to watch and join our FlightoftheHawkHMB YouTube channel for more videos and updates. Our music CD, "Flight of the Hawk Shamanic Songs and Ritual Chants" is also featured with single tracks you can listen to.

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO:

Spiritual Turning Points Book Trailer (youtube)

We look forward to hearing from you!

End of Summer: Hobbies and True Play

2011-08-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have blogged as life has been full with new clients after the publication of my book as well as my "new' old hobby, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels which was injected with fresh enthusiasm with the addition of Harrington Bit O' Honey aka Gracie into our lives.

My dear husband John recently asked me if I had any hobbies. I thought about it and realized that I spend much of my time working with clients and maintaining my physical health through exercise and good nutrition while interjecting some time for true rest and play here and there. But a hobby....not so much!

Thinking more about this hobby idea, I decided to look it up:

Hobby: An activity or interest pursued outside one's regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure.

My love of animals could certainly fall into this category as could my study of all manner of animal related topics from service training to genetics. How fun this might be! A new found hobby for me and one I have been enjoying for years but without knowing it was a hobby! Before today my only contact with the notion of hobbyists was with amateur musicians who loved to play for fun and pleasure but not professionally and I, as a former professional violinist, had little contact with enthusiastic but less technically proficient players who often times worked forty hours a week jobs and then played string quartets nights and weekends. These players were often skilled professionals, doctors and lawyers, who loved music but for many reasons chose not to pursue it as a career. But I always felt such joy from them as "pitchy" as they might be and now I am beginning to understand the true value of doing something because you love it, not because it brings home a paycheck.

I have been very blessed in this life to have a profession that I love, and to have had good success with it. I love helping others, and feel honored to participate in the turning points in their lives, offering my experience and guidance whether it is a medium, astrologer, or shamanic teacher. And, perhaps it is that now as I make the turn toward my 58th year in December, and am completing my life task, I am choosing now to expand my life and bring in more play!

Question: What brings you pleasure and playfulness?

Photo: Gracie 6.5 months

Thoughts From the Sea

2011-08-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

"One learns to accept the fact that no permanent return is possible to an old form of relationship; and, more deeply still, that there is no holding of a relationship to a single form. This is not tragedy but part of the ever-recurrent miracle of life and growth. All living relationships are in process of change, of expansion, and must perpetually be building themselves into new forms. But there is no single fixed form to express each changing relationship. There are perhaps different forms for each successive stage; different shells I might put in a row on my desk to suggest the different stages of marriage- or indeed of any relationship...."
from Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh

The Universe is constantly creating and changing, bringing new forms
into being just as old ones pass away. Birth, life, decay, death, rebirth.

Curiosity * Openness * Awareness * Grace

Remaining present to what is occurring while being open to what may unfold without attachment or the need to direct the course of events gives us all the opportunity for true joy. What a delight!

Question: What surprises are here for me today?

Love

2011-08-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

"Love is the real power. It's the energy that cherishes. The more you work with that energy, the more you will see how people respond naturally to it, and the more you will want to use it. It brings out your creativity, and helps everyone around you flower. Your children, the people you work with--everyone blooms."

-Marion Woodman

Family Pictures

2011-07-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

Parental Expectations and Iconography

excerpted from Spiritual Turning Points:

A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life Transitions"

"Before birth, the souls of the soon-to-be parents make an astral

plane agreement concerning what will become the familial icon for

the child. According to Merriam-Webster, the term icon is defined

as an image or symbol of the thing it represents. When such an

agreement as this is made, there will be expectations placed on the

child that may or may not have anything to do with their true nature

and always have to do with parental projections.

Both parents can agree upon the icon or they may decide to

each give the child one. A subsequent icon may also be given if an

event occurs that changes the basic constitution of the family such

as when one parent dies, the surviving parent remarries and a new

icon is granted the child.

Some icons are more palatable and include “the one who is

compliant” or “the good son.” Others are more negative such as “the

one who is deviant” or “the lost child.” Whether the chosen icons are

pleasing is not of great importance, for no matter what the chosen

icon is, it is still a projected expectation and one that the child will

adhere to in order to gain acceptance in the family. It is in fact not

until during the fourth transition that the icon is disassembled and

broken as part of the birth of the true personality. Until then, the icon

is the cornerstone of the false or learned personality."

c. 2011 Victoria Marina-Tompkins

Favorites from our Archives

2011-07-22T20:00:00.001-07:00

Water at the Well

"Don't Look for Water at an Empty Well"

There are several ways to interpret this saying but the primary idea is that you can't find what you are looking for in a place where there are no resources.

The Well as a metaphor can represent the always flowing Divine source where the well is always full. It's when we look for something or someone to be the Well instead of remembering theDivinity of the Well that we find emptiness, for no person, place, or thing can ever provide us with continuous nourishment in the way our connection to the Divine can.

Another possible interpretation of this saying is seeing the Well as your own energy that, when empty, can't provide you with the necessary energy for life. I used to have a recurring dream when my energies were drained; I was standing by my car at the gas station with an empty gas tank! What a great dream message to remind me that it was time to increase my true rest, take some time off from work, and replenish myself. True rest can provide us with rejuvenation and can fill up our own personal Well.

Finally, the Well can also be seen as another person or "thing". Often times we look to resolve issues within ourselves through our relationships as we create situations where we come face to face with our losses, expectations, and fears; We seek love from a person who cannot freely love us and find the Well empty. We seek compassion from those who are not compassionate, honesty and truth from those who are not honest, integrity from those who do not know themselves. We seek to be filled by substances which are merely substitutions. All of these attempts to find connection through externals will find us with an empty bucket at the Well as no one person or "thing" can ever be the Divine Well which is always present and flowing.

Our own work is to develop awareness of the Divine Well and to connect to it through daily prayer and meditation, always finding the overflowing source of abundance and grace.

The Addiction to Perfection

2011-07-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

PERFECTION

The oldest definition of "perfection", fairly precise and distinguishing the shades of the concept, goes back to Aristotle. In Book Delta of the Metaphysics, he distinguishes three meanings of the term, or rather three shades of one meaning, but in any case three different concepts. That is perfect:

1. which is complete — which contains all the requisite parts;
2. which is so good that nothing of the kind could be better;
3. which has attained its purpose.

The appreciation of beauty whether it is in art, music, nature, poetry or any other medium is something that comes naturally to most of us. Beauty is by its very nature harmonious, a balance of components which are pleasing to the eye, ears, or soul. Beauty is also subjective and is "in the eye of the beholder" and is subject to cultural definitions which can distort how we perceive beauty, demanding perfection.

Within our social and cultural arenas we learn from the time we are quite young to look outside ourselves in order to define what is beautiful, "perfect", and we begin to internalize those external representations and compare ourselves. Such comparisons can only lead to frustration, failed expectations, fear, and loss of self orientation, focused instead on an external beau ideal , the concept of perfection.

Striving ever faithfully toward perfection, we work harder, look better, type faster, have more, in order to meet the illusive need for being perfect. Why? Because we are taught from infancy that we are not "ok" the way we are. When we cry we are shushed, when we are hungry we are fed in order to keep us quiet, when we are expressive we are generally "too loud". Of course these are examples and not always the case; still, I think you understand my point here. Everything and everyone is subjected to demands of perfection which we may not even be aware of.

How do we break free of the addiction to perfection? We practice self acceptance. We look to ourselves rather than to the outside, beginning to understand that we are perfect "as is". We will continue to evolve, warts and all, fears and doubts, positives and negatives, and that evolution in and of itself, is perfection.

*excerpted from Wikipedia

We Are Evolving

2011-07-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

"While the human being is maturing in tangible, physical, and psychological ways, the soul is also evolving as it experiences all there is to learn on the physical plane before returning to the Tao, the universal creative source from whence it originally came. The cycle of reincarnation includes experiences of separateness while in human physicality, but you are always connected to the divine through your own essence even if you forget during the course of

your everyday life."

Victoria Marina-Tompkins from Spiritual Turning Points: A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life Transitions

The Four Addictions

2011-07-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

Addiction One: What isn't Working

The next Shamanic addiction on the Medicine Wheel is the addiction to what isnt working. Here we find the tendency to focus on the difficulties in life, wrapping us up in endless cycles of fear and feelings of frustration and failure. Avoiding this trap does not include becoming Polyanna-ish in our way of seeing our lives which would then focus on only the good and looking through proverbial rose colored glasses. Instead, breaking this addiction starts with acknowledging all aspects of our lives; what we are satisifed with, what we would like to change, and all that lies between. Once we see the bigger picture then we can begin to see where we might like to make adjustments while maintaining a balanced perspective which is not run by fear. We can change our lives and step around the tendency to create woeful stories and avoid the pitfalls of negative thoughts which create anger, hurt, resentments, and any number of other emotions. Begin to look at how you think about your life and fill your thoughts with appreciation for what IS working rather than what isn't working. You may be surprised at the result.

When I'm 61: Astrology and Life Transitions (book excerpt)

2011-07-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Uranus Square Uranus

Shaking It Up Again, Age Sixty-one

"This transit occurs several years after the second Saturn return

and may come as a big surprise as it shakes things up again.

Uranus first appeared at the age of twenty when it squared itself

and provided the opportunity for the first taste of freedom, pushing

the young adult toward independence. But how does this look at the

age of sixty-one? Think retirement. Think travel. Think anything that

isn’t the status quo! Of course, this transit is experienced through

the eyes of a mature adult, so it isn’t likely to be quite as frisky as it

was during the first square. Still, it gives the now sixty-one-year-old

a chance to do some of those things, embark on some of those

adventures that had been set aside during the hardworking years

following the fourth transition. If the dynamic energy of this transit

is utilized to full advantage, then the life review may not be as

disappointing in that some things on the personal Bucket List may

have been checked off. Uranus always seeks change, and this can

happen at any time during life and when this transit comes along,

it may be where it was least expected.

There can be a new sense of personal freedom that allows for

a little risk taking as this transit can bring on retirement when the

daily grind is no longer tolerable. If not, it’s the perfect time for a

sabbatical or other “time out.” The old adage is that you work until

you’re sixty-five, retire with the company gold watch, and then start

playing a lot of golf and bridge. This approach may have worked for

our parents, but the baby boomers and their children are looking for

new ways to age without relying on their parents as role models. Of

course, some values of the previous generation are being passed

down; in many cases the housing boom of the 1950s and 1960s

allowed for great wealth to be amassed that is now bequeathed to

the boomer generation, providing them with the monetary basis to

think outside the box and try new things.

The expansive nature of the computer era that began approximately

forty years ago and has accelerated over the past ten is also providing

new opportunities for global communications that are right up the Uranian

Alley. Those experiencing their second (and first) squares of Uranus

have an added burst of electrical energy that is sending waves of instant

communication around the world. The evolution of the Internet and

wireless technology allows everyone, youth and elders alike, to create

new telecommuting work environments that are perfect for seniors who

want to change their daily work routines by trying something new."

Zero Circle by Rumi

2011-06-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

On this most precious day, look to what is beautiful within you and then to what is beautiful without, for the inner will be mirrored by the outer. Open your eyes. Look. Be aware! Know that each day is perfect as it is, that you are perfect as you are. Love fully and freely.

ZERO CIRCLE
A poem by Rumi

"Be helpless, dumfounded,
Unable to say yes, or no.
Then a stretcher will come from grace
to gather us up.

We are too dull-eyed to see that beauty.
If we say we can, we're lying.
If we say No, we don't see it,
That No will behead us
And shut tight our window onto spirit.

So let us rather not be sure of anything,
Beside ourselves, and only that, so
Miraculous beings come running to help.
Crazed, lying in a zero circle, mute,
We shall be saying, finally,
With tremendous eloquence, Lead us.
When we have totally surrendered to that beauty,
We shall be a mighty kindness. "

note: Rumi never put any of his poems into writing, but rather he would spin and as he did, his scribe would listen and write down as much as possible. It is from this practice that the Sufi Whirling Dervishes were born.

The Soul's Purpose (book excerpt)

2011-06-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

The North and South Nodes of the Moon
"To the astrological layman, the north and south nodes of the Moon are more than likely something they have never heard about. Placed in opposition to each other in the birth chart, they illustrate perhaps more clearly than any other aspect not only what it is you came to learn about (north node), but also what stories you brought in with you from past incarnations (south node). Most people are allied with the south node up until the time of the fourth transition, and it is not until its completion that north node energies come into focus, often with startling outcomes.

It can be that during the external phase ideas that have long

been gestating become more tangible and possible. A long held

desire for leadership in the work place, the trademark of the north

node in Leo in the tenth house, comes to bear following the internal

work when there is now courage to ask for what is wanted. A fifth

house Moon in Gemini conjunct the north node now seeks creative

self-expression through the written word or the performing arts.

Take for example a Cancer south node that indicates that the

home, in a past incarnation, was extremely important along with the

natural instincts of mothering (Moon ruled by Cancer) and caregiving.

For the first forty or so years, Joanie had devoted herself to her

family and the raising of her children often to the exclusion of her

own needs which always came second. After the completion of her

midlife transition, she began to turn her attention to her north node

in Capricorn when she became an expert in finance, applying her

people skills to the housing industry as she helped families refinance

their homes. Megan on the other hand experienced her Sagittarius

South node in her lust for travel, spending the early part of her life

trying all kinds of different jobs in various countries, satisfying her

south node desire for expansive educational experiences. When her

north node came calling at the age of forty-three, she settled down

as a teacher of foreign studies at a local college, all the while writing

her personal story that she submitted for publication, much to the

delight of her north node in the air sign of communicative Gemini.

Changes such as these do not indicate that the south node

influence has evaporated, only that the focus of the individual is now

on the north node. The soul focus in early life is primarily on finishing

up past-life issues, developing the fundamental skills that will later

be used for the life work, and basically setting the stage for the true

work to emerge after the completion of this monadal transition. At

this point, the south node stays more in the background with the

north node moving into a position of primary interest and influence

with a defined energetic push toward new awareness related to life

purpose. It is then during the external phase that actions may be

taken that set up the next twenty years of life where the life focus

will be completed."

Living the Simple Life

2011-06-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

"Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone. The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials". - Lin Yutang (1895-1976)

Harvard scholar and Taoist Lin Yutang wrote about the importance of living a simple life, one that is uncluttered with the many non-essentials that seems to take up our time and energy. For him, taking the time for a relaxing cup of tea, a long walk along the seashore, conversations with friends are all equal in importance to work and the tasks of making a living. These activities fill our spirit, helping to revitalize our energy. There will always be another dish to wash, floor to sweep, call to make, and paper to write. Allowing for daily "non-doing" is one of the keys to living the Simple Life.

Favorites from our Archives

2011-06-19T09:46:00.000-07:00

Addiction in Fairy Tales: Soul Loss and Recovery

A continuation of the exploration of Addiction and our desire to connect with the Divine.

THE RED SHOES

There was once a little girl who was very pretty and delicate, but in summer she was forced to run about with bare feet, she was so poor, and in winter wear very large wooden shoes, which made her little insteps quite red, and that looked so dangerous! In the middle of the village lived old Dame Shoemaker; she sat and sewed together, as well as she could, a little pair of shoes out of old red strips of cloth; they were very clumsy, but it was a kind thought. They were meant for the little girl. The little girl was called Catherine.On the very day her mother was buried, Catherine received the red shoes, and wore them for the first time. They were certainly not intended for mourning, but she had no others, and with stocking-less feet she followed the poor straw coffin in them.

Here we see that the little girl Catherine has suffered a great loss with the loss of her mother. She and the wise woman, the Dame Shoemaker, fashioned together a simple pair of shoes that, while not beautiful, were of her own making, echoing the "Resiliency of the Human Spirit".

Suddenly a large old carriage drove up, and an old lady sat in it: she looked at the little girl, felt compassion for her, and then said to the clergyman: "Here, give me the little girl. I will adopt her!" And Catherine believed all this happened on account of the red shoes, but the old lady thought they were horrible, and they were burnt.

The little Red Shoes were thrown into the fires, not to be transformed, but to be discarded. What was precious to Catherine meant little to the Old Woman in the Carriage. Catherine was beginning to lose her connection to her Spirit. The Old Woman in this does not represent wisdom but instead staid social values which are unbending and "frozen" in time, disallowing for the regenerative youthful spirit of little Catherine.

Now Catherine was old enough to be confirmed; she had new clothes and was to have new shoes also. The rich shoemaker in the city took the measure of her little foot. This took place at his house, in his room; where stood large glass-cases, filled with elegant shoes and brilliant boots. All this looked charming, but the old lady could not see well, and so had no pleasure in them. In the midst of the shoes stood a pair of red ones, just like those the princess had worn. How beautiful they were! The shoemaker said also they had been made for the child of a count, but had not fitted. "That must be patent leather!" said the old lady. "They shine so!""Yes, they shine!" said Catherine, and they fitted, and were bought, but the old lady knew nothing about their being red, else she would never have allowed Catherine to have gone in red shoes to be confirmed. Yet such was the case.

Catherine looks outside of herself and her own beauty and is tempted by the glamour of the shoes and of being a "Princess" in the eyes of the world. She wants the acceptance of others and chooses external riches, The Red Shoes, because she thinks that wearing them will make her feel whole. She wants to fill her emptiness with The Perfect Thing.

Everybody looked at her feet; and when she stepped through the chancel door on the church pavement, it seemed to her as if the old figures on the tombs, those portraits of old preachers and preachers' wives, with stiff ruffs, and long black dresses, fixed their eyes on her red shoes. And she thought only of them as the clergyman laid his hand upon her head, and spoke of the holy baptism, of the covenant with God, and how she should be now a matured Christian; and the organ pealed so solemnly; the sweet children's voices sang, and the old music-directors sang, but Catherine only thought of her red shoes.In the afternoon, the old lady heard from everyone that the shoes had been red, and she said that it was very wrong of Catherine, that it was not at all becoming, and that in future Catherine should only go in black shoes to church, even when she should be older.

The Church represents the influence of cultural expectations and the imposition of morality in this story. The power of the Collective is strong and demands that the individual adhere to rules and regulations. She can think of nothing else, she is obsessed.

The next Sunday there was the sacrament, and Catherine looked at the black shoes, looked at the red ones--looked at them again, and put on the red shoes.

Catherine hears the call of the Red Shoes, the Red Shoes that make her feel pretty and well liked, and she answers that call regardless of what the consequences might be.

The sun shone gloriously; Catherine and the old lady walked along the path through the corn; it was rather dusty there. At the church door stood an old soldier with a crutch, and with a wonderfully long beard, which was more red than white, and he bowed to the ground, and asked the old lady whether he might dust her shoes. And Catherine stretched out her little foot."See, what beautiful dancing shoes!" said the soldier. "Sit firm when you dance"; and he put his hand out towards the soles. And the old lady gave the old soldier alms, and went into the church with her. And all the people in the church looked at Catherine's red shoes, and all the pictures, and as Catherine knelt before the altar, and raised the cup to her lips, she only thought of the red shoes, and they seemed to swim in it; and she forgot to sing her psalm, and she forgot to pray, "Our Father in Heaven!"

The experience in the Church represents Catherine's distraction from her internal connection to the Divine, to God. She thinks only of the Red Shoes, of what will make her feel full again.

Now all the people went out of church, and the old lady got into her carriage. Catherine raised her foot to get in after her, when the old soldier said, "Look, what beautiful dancing shoes!"And she could not help dancing a step or two, and when she began her feet continued to dance; it was just as though the shoes had power over them. She danced round the church corner, she could not leave off; the coachman was obliged to run after and catch hold of her, and he lifted her in the carriage, but her feet continued to dance so that she trod on the old lady dreadfully. At length she took the shoes off, and then her legs had peace.

The Soldier is The Devil in traditional terms, or Fear in modern psychological ones. He is the "tempter" who ceases to remind her at every opportunity of the Red Shoes and how she feels when she wears them. She is caught up in the ECSTASY OF THE DANCE which soon will begin to spiral out of control. She has found her Drug, her Substance, which mimics the ecstasy of oneness with God but is based in fear, not love.

The shoes were placed in a closet at home, but Catherine could not avoid looking at them.

She cannot resist. She must wear them.

Now the old lady was sick, and it was said she could not recover. She must be nursed and waited upon, and there was no one whose duty it was so much as Catherine's. But there was a great ball in the city, to which Catherine was invited. She looked at the old lady, who could not recover, she looked at the red shoes, and she thought there could be no sin in it; she put on the red shoes, she might do that also, she thought. But then she went to the ball and began to dance. When she wanted to dance to the right, the shoes would dance to the left, and when she wanted to dance up the room, the shoes danced back again, down the steps, into the street, and out of the city gate. She danced, and was forced to dance straight out into the gloomy wood. Then it was suddenly light up among the trees, and she fancied it must be the moon, for there was a face; but it was the old soldier with the red beard; he sat there, nodded his head, and said, "Look, what beautiful dancing shoes!" Then she was terrified, and wanted to fling off the red shoes, but they clung fast; and she pulled down her stockings, but the shoes seemed to have grown to her feet. And she danced, and must dance, over fields and meadows, in rain and sunshine, by night and day; but at night it was the most fearful.

She spirals out of control, totally lost, at the whim of the Red Shoes, of her addiction.

She danced over the churchyard, but the dead did not dance--they had something better to do than to dance. She wished to seat herself on a poor man's grave, where the bitter tansy grew; but for her there was neither peace nor rest; and when she danced towards the open church door, she saw the Spirit of the Dead standing there. He wore long, white garments; he had wings which reached from his shoulders to the earth; his countenance was severe and grave; and in his hand he held a sword, broad and glittering."Dance shalt thou!" said he. "Dance in thy red shoes till thou art pale and cold! Till thy skin shrivels up and thou art a skeleton! Dance shalt thou from door to door, and where proud, vain children dwell, thou shalt knock, that they may hear thee and tremble! Dance shalt thou--!""Mercy!" cried Catherine. But she did not hear the spirit's reply, for the shoes carried her through the gate into the fields, across roads and bridges, and she must keep ever dancing. One morning she danced past a door which she well knew. Within sounded a psalm; a coffin, decked with flowers, was borne forth. Then she knew that the old lady was dead, and felt that she was abandoned by all, and condemned by the angel of God.

There is no safe haven to return to. Catherine has lost her natural instincts, she is lost in her addiction. She can no longer see the true nature of The Red Shoes, she only knows she must dance.

She danced, and she was forced to dance through the gloomy night. The shoes carried her over stack and stone; she was torn till she bled; she danced over the heath till she came to a little house. Here, she knew, dwelt the executioner; and she tapped with her fingers at the window, and said, "Come out! Come out! I cannot come in, for I am forced to dance!"And the executioner said, "Thou dost not know who I am, I fancy? I strike bad people's heads off; and I hear that my axe rings!" "Don't strike my head off!" said Catherine. "Then I can't repent of my sins! But strike off my feet in the red shoes!"And then she confessed her entire sin, and the executioner struck off her feet with the red shoes, but the shoes danced away with the little feet across the field into the deep wood. And he carved out little wooden feet for her, and crutches, taught her the psalm criminals always sing; and she kissed the hand which had wielded the axe, and went over the heath."Now I have suffered enough for the red shoes!" said she. "Now I will go into the church that people may see me!" And she hastened towards the church door: but when she was near it, the red shoes danced before her, and she was terrified, and turned round. The whole week she was unhappy, and wept many bitter tears; but when Sunday returned, she said, "Well, now I have suffered and struggled enough! I really believe I am as good as many a one who sits in the church, and holds her head so high!"

Catherine has made a sacrifice in order to reclaim her spirit. She has surrendered the shoes.

The following Sunday, when the family was going to church, they asked her whether she would not go with them; but she glanced sorrowfully, with tears in her eyes, at her crutches. The family went to hear the word of God; but she went alone into her little chamber; there was only room for a bed and chair to stand in it; and here she sat down with her Prayer-Book; and whilst she read with a pious mind, the wind bore the strains of the organ towards her, and she raised her tearful countenance, and said, "O God, help me!"

Now that Catherine no longer is dancing the dance of the shoes, she begins to return to her innate connection to God through prayer and contemplation. She begins to heal.

And the sun shone so clearly, and straight before her stood the angel of God in white garments, a Spirit as she had seen before but he no longer carried the sharp sword, but in its stead a splendid green spray, full of roses. And he touched the ceiling with the spray, and the ceiling rose so high, and where he had touched it there gleamed a golden star. The clear sunshine streamed so warmly through the window to where Catherine sat! Her heart was so full of sunshine, peace, and joy, that it broke. Her soul flew on the sunshine to God.

From the works of Hans Christian Andersen, adapted by Clarissa Pinkola Estes (c. 1992) Illustration by Anne Anderson. The Golden Wonder Book for Children (c. 1924)

Comments in bold italics by Victoria Marina-Tompkins

Revisit: Pluto in Capricorn

2011-06-16T18:42:00.000-07:00

Several years ago Pluto began it's march through Capricorn and what a series of events unfolded! Take a look at this blog from Sept. 2009 with it's focus on the upcoming Plutonian changes and then review your own life. What has happened? Have you encountered forces seemingly beyond your control? Pluto is now retrograding at 6 degrees of Capricorn and bringing up issues for each of us to consider- are we holding on too tightly to control? Time to let go.....

Pluto in Capricorn: Gold in the Shadow

On Sept. 11th Pluto will once again station at 0 degrees Capricorn and turn direct, focusing its penetrating eye on the fundamental structures of our lives including the financial system and anything which needs "adjustment". In March of 2008 Pluto first entered Capricorn after a long stay in Sagittarius (its orbit is 248 years so it is in each sign for a long while) as we saw the first glimpse of its intention with the fall of Bear Stearns and the beginning of the global economic meltdown. During the summer of 2008 Pluto was again retrograde and we had a brief respite from the transformational process, some time to "regroup" before its next efforts which began Sept. 10th of 2008 as it moved directly into Capricorn and well, we all know what happened in the following months! It was during this time that the beginning of Pluto's intentions became apparent: to rebalance power that was out of control and in favor of the small majority at the top, those who had used power inappropriately through greed and manipulation. The shadowy underbelly of our monetary systems began to be revealed which included corruption, deceit, and behind the scenes wrangling which cost millions of dollars for those who had trusted the very basis of our banking system. Pluto had begun its journey through Capricorn by showing us what needed changing.
Fast forward to Sept. 2009: In the next week Pluto will again move direct in Capricorn, this time at 0 degrees with the Sabian Symbol "An Indian Chief Claims Power from the Assembled Tribe" or "the power and responsibility implied in any claim for leadership".
This symbol speaks to the need for decisive leadership which will guide the community to ensure its physical survival, depending on group cooperation to achieve the greater goals for the common man. It is easy to see how this symbol is playing out with President Obama'sfocus on reforming health care and his stepping up to the plate in order to provide health care for millions who are unable to afford it. Here Pluto is demonstrating that power has been held by the Pharmaceutical companies and cooperations who have locked up our health care system with rising costs which literally have disregarded the needs of the many and supported the bank accounts of the few. We have first row seats as Pluto works his magic on this aspect of our system which is drastically in need of reform.

On a more personal level, Plutonian transits most usually affect us in deep ways, most of them unsettling to say the least as they plumb the depths of our fears, in this case related to survival and abandonment. Over the past year many of us have pared down, gone "back to basics" and reevaluated what was of true importance to us. Pluto will never take away that which truly belongs to you, but it will challenge you to let go of that which is not yours, or which is outworn and outdated. A look at where transiting Pluto is in your astrological chart (0 Capricorn) will indicate where Pluto is working on your own psyche as well as where it isnatally (your birth chart), the two of which can provide some valuable insight as to where your own transformational Plutonian process is taking place.

Take heart for even as Pluto destroys it always transforms and rebirth occurs. Due to its slow planetary movement, the process is a bit grinding, giving us all plenty of time to surrender to the process of change. It may not be comfortable, but there is always "gold" in the shadow and this is the reward of the transformational process.

The Nine Needs: Expression

2011-06-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

"There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening, that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique." Martha Graham

Those of us, myself included, who have chosen expression as one of the three primary needs need to find ways of expressing ourselves in order to maintain psychological health. With expression in the lead position or one of the top 3, it is important to allow for personal expression in as many ways as possible and which could include

* Artistry in the life Any number of ways to express in daily life such as how you dress both yourself and your environment

*Express yourself through the many choices you make including personal preferences ie food, daily schedule, sleeping patterns, and friends.

* Creative outlets Music, Art, Drama, Writing, Dance These expressive venues can include both doing them yourself or going to hear music and other expressive arts.

*Verbal expression Yes, those of us with expression as a primary need seem to need to talk alot! It's ok, it's just part of who you are.

Question: What are the ways you choose to express yourself? How would you like to express yourself?

Photo: Urban Art by Brendan McCarthy, San Francisco, California

The Nine Needs: Communion or Life as Temple

2011-06-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series of articles on the 9 Needs that include communion, security, expression, exchange, power, acceptance, freedom, adventure, and expansion. Most of us choose 3 as our primary needs in life and find that if they are met, then we feel at ease and satisfied. Today let's begin by taking a look at the need of communion.

COMMUNION or Life as Temple

Middle English, from Latin communion-, communio mutual participation, from communis

Date: 14th century

1 : an act or instance of sharing
2 a capitalized : a Christian sacrament in which consecrated bread and wine are consumed as memorials of Christ's death or as symbols for the realization of a spiritual union between Christ and communicant or as the body and blood of Christ b : the act of receiving Communion ccapitalized : the part of a Communion service in which the sacrament is received
3 : intimate fellowship or rapport

Communion is one of the 9 needs psychological needs according to the Michael teachings and this need has to do with creating connection with others which can be met through one on one contact, with groups, and, in the larger sense, with the Cosmos or God. Communion is not the same as conversation which tends to be more like the exchange need where information is traded back and forth, but is experienced as a blending of energies, a release of the individual personality and an opening to one-ness. Group rituals including music, drumming, and dance can be gateways through which the communion need is met as is sensuality and sexuality where the mind is set aside in favor of feeling and movement. Communion is all about feeling!

The quoted definition is partially aligned with the Michael definition in terms of feelings of rapport, but not in terms of religious affiliation which is not at all related to the Michael's definition of communion. The original intention of the sacrement of communion is similar in that the ritual was designed as a way for the individual to interact with the Divine, but in most cases the scripting involved did little to allow for a pure experience to occur. We have the opportunity now to experience communion on a daily basis by expanding our conscious awareness of our connection with all that is, by feeling our breath and the sun and moon on our skin. Open your awareness!

Next: Expression

Reactions and Perceptions

2011-06-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

I hear the dog barking outside and immediately tense up- how can I do my work while he is interrupting me? I reconsider after taking a breath- perhaps he is alerting his master about something important and serving as protector of his home.

My plans include a trip to the store and once in my car I see that the road is blocked for repair and by the time I wait and resume my trip, the store is closed. I reconsider after taking a breath- perhaps by going another time I will meet the best person to help me in my process, or run into an old friend.

A relationship ends after many years, the loss of which is difficult and emotionally painful. I reconsider after taking (many ) a breath- participating in the relationship itself was draining energy from me on a daily basis creating health problems, anxieties, and depression. Perhaps letting it go will in time allow for more healthy relationships to develop.

All of the above are examples of how we often automatically react to life changes, both small and large. Our first reactions may be fear based but we need not stay in fear and can instead "regroup" by taking a breath, releasing the fear, and then allowing our perceptions to expand which then opens our awareness. Only in retrospect can we easily see what did in fact happen, that it all worked out so to speak, and wonder "Why did I worry so much about that?".

The past teaches us that life unfolds in it's own way and by being in the present while applying this perception of the natural flow of life, we can release the hold of fear and experience more joy.

Creating Personal Rituals

2011-06-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

During times of personal transition, it can be both inspiring and motivating to create a personal ritual focused on the outcome you wish. Here is a simple outline that you can use for your ritual once you have decided on the intention of the ritual. Remember to have fun! Ritual does not have to be serious, but it does need to be focused.

1. Create your environment.
Here you gather together the tools that you will need during the ritual. This might include objects to represent each of the 4 directions or elements (air, fire, water, earth) a candle for focus, things that are important to you. The space should be a place where you can be uninterrupted for about an hour. Use music, incense, candles.

2. Call in your helping spirits or allies.
Using a rattle or drum is great, but you can also use any musical instrument which calls attention to the beginning (and later end) of your ritual.

3. Do a meditation or drum to help you move into a deeper state of consciousness.

4. Set your intentions.
Here you would say what it is that you intend to do.

5. Make your ritual action.

6. Sing a song, say a poem, bring something creative into your ritual. Be spontaneous!

7. Say thanks and give gratitude.

8. Close the circle. ( Sound the chime, or say "It is done.")

Sample Ritual: A good place to begin would be in a natural setting. Find a tree. Sit with your back up against the tree and listen. Let your mind become still and clear. The tree will remind you that you are a very ancient being with many lives and many experiences. There have been times when you have been filled with love and there have been times when you have been filled with fear. Let yourself remember some of these times. Breathe. Then let yourself remember a time in the recent past when you were very afraid, a time when you were unable to stay clear of negative energy. Breathing deeply, let the energy flow down your chakras into the earth, Say 'I now release all negative and distracting energies for the benefit of all concerned'. Breathe. Listen to the tree again. Remember that you are loved. Be grateful.

c. 2011 Victoria Marina-Tompkins

The 7 Body Types: A Closer Look

2011-06-09T16:35:00.000-07:00

There are 7 Body types and we usually choose two in each lifetime, one as primary and the other secondary. Different cultures value body types differently; Westerners prefer the slender look of Saturn and Mercury while South Pacific Islanders are comfortable with the abundant look of Jupiter or Venus body types. We also choose our body types as part of our genetic composition or bloodlines- ever notice how some families seem to have the same look?

The Body types are divided into 3 sets of pairs that are attracting to each other. For example, a Mars body type man or woman would naturally be physically attracted to a Venusian woman or man. The square and strong Mars type likes the curves of Venus body type! In contract, the Jupiter body type likes Mercury, the small and light body type. Have you ever seen a couple with one partner who is quite large and the other quite small? That's Jupiter and Mercury. Lunar body type is attracted to angular Saturn, the "bones" look of the body types. The soft and luminous aspect of Lunar is mated with the long and lean body type of Saturn. And finally, solar body type, the lone singleton of the group is neutral and can pair with any of the other types!

THE PAIRS

LUNAR: + Luminous - Pallid

SATURNIAN: + Rugged - Gaunt

JUPITER : + Grandeur - Elephantine

MERCURIAL: + Agile - Frenetic

VENUSIAN: + Voluptuous - Obese

MARTIAL: + Wiry - Muscle-bound

SOLAR: + Radiant - Ethereal

BODY TYPE COMFORT Have you ever felt instantly comfortable with someone, feeling at ease with them? You probably share at least one body type. Jupiter feels comfortable with others with large body types including Venus, while Mercury can feel at home with other swift body types such as solar which tends toward lightness. Recognizing body type comfort is very positive and just as valid as the "pizazz" of body type attraction. Many older couples will have found their perfect match with someone with the same or compatible body type rather than the roller coaster and fireworks of body type attraction.

Accepting your chosen body type as valid for you instead of trying to change it to meet current social standards can go a long way toward creating a healthy and happy life. Take a look at the list and see what combination of body types you have chosen and then look at those around you. Sometimes it is easier to spot your mate or friends type than your own!

The 7 Body Types: What's Yours?

2011-06-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, I live on the coast of northern California about 20 miles south of San Francisco. What is often referred to by locals as "heaven on earth" about 9 months of the year becomes a fog laced haven of summer weather, often times bringing cold spells that are good fortune for those folks who live over the hill on the peninsula as they come here for relief from the heat but become weary days for those of us living by the ocean. Now of course I don't speak for all coastal dwellers, but it is common theme in July and August.

Facing another Sunday of fog, I realized that I was perhaps quite sensitive to the lack of sun and that this sensitivity might relate to my chosen primary body type, Solar. Give me a mildly sunny day, not too hot and not too cold, about 72 degrees and Im a happy camper! Today even with the prospect of sun which began with increased light, I began to feel much improved both in terms of energy and attitude. I am thinking then that the various body types of which there are 7 and include Solar, Lunar, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, Saturn, and Mercury (quite planetary aren't they)each respond more favorably to certain conditions than others, with Solar needing both light and warmth. The positive pole is Radiance with the negative pole Ethereal which has an insubstantial or fragile quality to it with Solar body types tending toward delicate features including bone structure (facial, hands, feet)and overall frame. When Solar types are in the positive, they tend to have a brightness about them which comes from within and when in the negative they can appear sickly and almost breakable.

The body types are usually chosen in pairs with one being the dominant for a person; for example 85% Solar, 15% Mercury or 75% Jupiter, 25% Mars. The choice of specific body type combinations are made in order to support completion of the Life Task and genetic predispositions from the parents are then used as the template prior to birth; in other words, the available genetic body types are part of the decision making process prior to birth and the body type emerges as the fetus grows, fully in place at the time of birth. If you need say Mars and Venus for your life task, then choosing parents who have those types in their genetic makeup will be useful. Efforts made during the course of the life to adhere to cultural standards of beauty which may or may not be your body type are likely to lead to frustration as the body is what the body is. But that topic is a large one and another blog.

Check back for next blog: The 7 Body Types in Depth

What Do You Love?

2011-06-08T11:06:00.000-07:00

"You will enjoy any activity in which you are truly present, any activity that is not just a means to an end.

It isn't the action you perform that you really enjoy, but the deep sense of aliveness that flows into it."

Eckhart Tolle from Oneness With All Life

What Tolle is speaking to here is being alert in our daily activities in such a way as to promote stillness within you that is "the background of the activity". (Tolle) Immediately my mind went to the yea buts which included things I don't like to do ie how can I possibly enjoy them? But upon looking more closely, I found that many of the daily activities which can be tedious and which could include driving, laundry, dishes, chores, even obligatory email exchanges can in fact be far less stressful, even positive when bringing alertness into the picture.

One of the most simple ways to begin this process is to bring your attention to your breath. The act of shifting attention to our breathing brings us into the present moment and allows us to become more alert and centered. Once we become alert, then we are no longer resisting the activity in which we are engaged and we can enjoy the flow of conscious awareness into our actions and we may even begin to enjoy life more fully.

Astrology and the Third Transition (book excerpt)

2011-06-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

Astrology and the Third Transition (excerpt from Chapter 3 Spiritual Turning Points)

"There are several astrological transits to the Natal or Birth chart which every person experiences in order to evolve. The first one occurs at about the age of 15.

Saturn oppose Saturn (15-16 years)

Astrologers refer to this transit as one of the first karmic events you have in a lifetime. It’s a “Me versus the World” confrontation and introduces the primary issue that will become a focal point throughout the life. This transit can coincide with the choosing of the primary defense system and marks the creation of a solid False Persona as the Saturn opposition creates tension and the strong desire to break away from the demands of the nuclear family. Suddenly childhood is over as the challenges of life become clear. Saturn transits often include tangles with authority figures, legal problems, rules, and physical plane limitations. It is a time of testing and hard work. But Saturn also gives rewards: this may be a time when, after the work has been accomplished, a new vision of one’s mission in life becomes apparent even if it is not clear until after the completion of the 4th Transition somewhere in the late 30’s to mid 40’s.

Uranus square Uranus (20-21 years)

Uranus is the planet of surprises, breakthroughs and breakdowns, change, and freedom. It’s the “I Gotta Be Me” planet and seeks non-conformity. Perfect for a 20 year old! This is the time for trying new things, travel, and more experimentation. It rocks the boat until you step out. For the young adult who has played by the rules for the most part, you may see them leaving college early and moving in with their boyfriend. Or a major relocation may be in the works, perfect for a BIG break from the family of origin as a plan is put into place for moving across the country. Whatever the choices here, this time period is a major shake up time with the mantra “Change is Good!”

The First Saturn Return (28-29 years)

The first Saturn return is an important transit that marks the completion of the first full cycle of Saturn’s movement through the birth chart as it reaches its natal position. This time period is the beginning of a new cycle and also requires a serious look at what has occurred in the life to date, what structures are no longer useful and need attention and revision, after which the now almost 30 year old can begin to build the foundation for the next phase of life. Since Saturn is the natural home of the earth sign Capricorn, most of these events are tangible and easily seen or grasped and may include job and location changes, malfunctions of the physical body such as the need for dentistry or chiropractic work, and an underlying need to change anything that isn’t going to be used in the next phase.

For many, this time period can be rocky as old structures disintegrate and the new ones have yet to be created. It also marks the time when the 3rd transition is usually complete in Western culture but it may not be until after the resolution of this transit that the monad is finished due to the changes that are usually necessary during this Saturn transit. Lasting about a year, many challenges are presented that hopefully can be addressed, resolved, and integrated as part of the restructuring process."

June Coastviews Magazine Interview with Victoria!

2011-05-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce that my interview with Whitney Merrill of CoastViews Magazine is out! Thanks to all for this wonderful opportunity including publisher Gwen O'Neill and contributing writer Whitney Merrill. Enjoy!!

Click here for the interview:

June Coastviews Magazine Interview

Spiritual Turning Points- Our Book Trailer!

2011-05-30T08:21:00.000-07:00

Wearing the World Like A Loose Garment (archives)

2011-05-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

Letting Go of Attachments

St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226 ce) is credited with the saying “Wear the world like a loose garment."

In order to be truly free, it is beneficial to cultivate a relationship to external events where clinging does not occur, and to see that anything outside of the self which is seen as providing security is temporal at best. This approach to life doesn't imply ambivalence or lack of participation, but rather suggests that it is when we become attached that we suffer as attachment lends itself to disappointment due to failed expectations.

The first step is becoming willing to let go of anything: people, objects, and expectations. We begin to let go of looking outside of ourselves for satisfaction and pleasure, understanding that our true sense of joy is within. And, contrary to what at first may seem as negative or indifference, letting go of our attachments creates the chance to experience life without imposing our hopes, needs, dreams, wants, desires, and expectations on others which then creates freedom all around. The freedom to choose, both for ourselves and for others.

Byron Katie wisely says "As long as we continue to resist reality we will suffer". When we wear the world like a loose garment we are accepting reality without the need to change it and this is where suffering ends and freedom begins.

Changing Your Life Direction: Course Corrections (book excerpt)

2011-05-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

Changing Your Life Direction:

Course Corrections

EXCERPT FROM "SPIRITUAL TURNING POINTS: A METAPHYSICAL PERSPECTIVE OF THE SEVEN LIFE TRANSITIONS"

"Our essence has an interesting way of creating realignment

with its purpose and one way that it does that is through course

corrections. For example, we may be planning on entering a four-year

advanced study of electronics but learn at the last moment that

the school we were going to attend has been overbooked and we

are now off the roster. If we hold to the opinion that this school was

the only school that would work, or the best school, then we are

scripting the outcome through surety of our choice. But how do we

really ever know that our choice is the absolute best or “right” one?

We can’t. Only in retrospect can we see that our long and winding

path through life took many turns but was always moving forward

even when we felt it had stopped. There are times, however, when

a major course correction is needed from a soul essence point of

view and that no matter how hard it tries to get our attention, we

just aren’t listening.

Laurie was a professional photographer. From roughly the age

of ten she had been taking snapshots and putting them into books,

carefully noting the who, what, and where by each picture. As she

grew older, her love of the camera developed into her work when she

got the job of her dreams as the head reporter and photojournalist

for a local newspaper. After ten years, however, she had, in her mind,

learned all she could and was ready to move on, but by then she

had two young sons and a husband who had just lost his job, so

she stayed at the newspaper, becoming more and more depressed

and literally unable to get out of bed some days.

From an essence perspective, Laurie was ready to move toward

a new line of work through which she would find more creative

self-expression. After several months of incapacitating lethargy,

she found her way to a talented therapist who was able to guide

her toward the real reasons she was hesitant to change jobs and it

wasn’t what she thought at all; it had more to do with her fear of new

situations. What I hadn’t mentioned before is that at the age of twelve,

Laurie’s father had died. He had been her cheerleading team and

emotional support, and when he died she became determined to

make him proud and what better way than to become a professional

photographer? What had started as a childhood hobby, albeit an

enjoyable one, was now a near obsession to follow the path her father

had encouraged. Plus, with an unemployed husband and children who

depended on her, how could she be so selfish as to take risks with a

new career? Well, Laurie did figure it out. She is now sixty-two, and

has thoroughly enjoyed teaching art to children for the past twenty

years. She navigated through a course correction with the help of

a good advisor, her therapist, and the support of her husband who did,

after all his misgivings, suggest she follow her new dream.”

New 5 Star Book Review!

2011-05-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

New! Patricia L. Gomavitz reviewed Spiritual Turning Points: A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life Transitions

A Must for all serious students of life May 23, 2011

As a Michael student (channeled teachings from causal level) I highly recommend Spiritual Turning Points. Victoria Marina-Tompkins has elaborated on the seven life transitions as presented in the teaching. The book includes an in depth exploration of our progress through these spiritual life transitions which are the cornerstone of the human maturation process in physical, psychological and spiritual terms with recommendations on how to successfully complete each one in the positive mode.

While the human being is maturing in tangible, physical, and psychological ways, the soul is also evolving as it experiences all there is to learn on the physical plane before returning to the Tao, the universal creative source from whence it originally came. Our ongoing connection during times when we may feel separated are noted with comments.
Additional comments related to correlation with astrology and shamanism are included in each level.

It is a must for parents who desire to support their children in positive transitions, one, two and three. The fourth transition (often referred to as mid life crisis) with the ultimate purpose of self realization and the journey to achieve it are eloquently described with real life examples. Life review, dying and death include comforting notes on the life process during these transitions and final transcendence. It is a reminder that all is choice and helps us to remember this during the journey. This is a must for all serious students of life.

From Amazon.com

Favorites from our Archives

2011-05-22T08:07:00.000-07:00

FAVORITES FROM OUR ARCHIVES.....

Friday, April 23, 2010

God is Awake

"Have courage for the great sorrows of life and patience for the small ones; and when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."

Victor Hugo

Interview with Victoria at Independent Author Network

2011-05-18T07:23:00.000-07:00

My interview with The Independent Author Network is now online on their blog. The link below will take you to the article. Enjoy!

http://independentauthornetwork.blogspot.com/2011/05/victoria-marina-tompkins-ian-interview.html

Process not Product: The Life Made by Hand

2011-05-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

During the middle ages craftsmen would sometimes take their entire lives to create a personal masterpiece. Stained glass windows would be created one pane at a time without the need to rush or have a product they could show off to family and friends. Weavers would create entire tapestries one thread at a time and it wasn't until many years later that the true beauty of the piece would emerge as the last threads were put into place.

In today's world, we have become focused on product rather than process, on completing many tasks in order to keep our lives running and manageable. Certainly, order can be a bi-product of this approach but at what expense? For some, the feeling of creative chaos may be uncomfortable and in fact may be avoided in favor of a task oriented approach to life. When we are in the midst of process, the threads of our life may feel like they are undone or unraveling, when in fact we are creating the larger tapestry that may be difficult to see.

What Are Your Personal Vignettes?

Looking at our lives as a series of vignettes can be a helpful way to bring to light both significant events as well as time periods that were marked by people, places, and things. What were you doing in your twenties? Were there certain people who come to mind, events that were important, changes made? If you were creating a stained glass window, what would the theme of that time period be? Think of a word or catch phrase such as education, meeting the world, marriage, children, or any other phrase that describes the gem or pearl of your experiences. Is there a symbol that represents the time without words? A spiral, pyramid, a tree. Then follow the thread into your thirties and look to see what the new theme might have been. Did the tree of your twenties grow or did you change direction and plant something else?

During our lives we create different stories or Personal Vignettes that encapsulate the gist of the time period and when woven together later, create the whole of our lives. Think of a snapshot or picture-what would your personal snapshot look like when you were in your youth, mature adulthood? Decide on the setting for your Vignette. What was the tone? Calm, energizing, chaotic, fearful, adventurous? A combination of all of the above! You are painting a picture of your life and part of that picture is the way it felt to you. Then there is color- blues, reds, greens, all of the above? Once you have pulled together the threads of the past, then take a look at how they relate to where you are now. See the bigger picture. Nothing happens in isolation and every moment of life relates to every other moment, eventually blending together to weave the life we are living now. Enjoy these moments and trust in the process.

Experiencing the Spaces in Every Day Life

2011-05-09T18:13:00.000-07:00

Some days it seems to be easy to be in the moment- the sun is out with plentiful blue skies, there are no pressing work deadlines to meet, and no problems to solve. On these days we remember to breathe in the beauty around us, and find enjoyment in the simple things.

Then there are "those days." The days when the alarm clock goes off earlier than our internal clock, when there don't seem to be enough minutes in the day, or when the puppy eats our favorite pair of shoes which is yes, from my own life! Still these busy days need not be any different than those that at first glance seem more relaxing. It's on these days that we can choose to flow with the river.

Listening to the Silences

Often times our minds are filled with so many thoughts that we are stumped when it comes to finding any kind of respite. One thought seems to lead to another, and before you know it, we are having imaginary conversations with ourselves! Worries can fill our minds, cashing in on our deepest fears and insecurities with "reasonable" explanations and excuses not to mention arguments for the validity of whatever the issue of the day is.

So how do we turn off our monkey minds? By listening to the silence in between sounds in our external environment. The birds are singing. The chimes blow in the wind and make a soothing sound. Rain drips on the rooftop. The wind blows. Cars whizzing by on the freeway or neighborhood roads, the fog horn blows. We sit by the ocean and listen to the crash of the waves. Wonderful.

Once you have tuned into the sounds of nature, then go one step deeper. Listen for the silence in between the sound of the chimes, the birds singing, waves crashing.

Listen for that moment. Breathe in that moment. Be in the silence. For once you become aware of the possibility of quieting your mind anywhere, anytime, and under any circumstances, you have a powerful tool for increasing self awareness and presence.

When the Grape Meets the Press: Letting Go of Non Essentials

2011-05-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

"We must become the change we wish to see in the world." -Ghandi

Every so often we enter a time in our lives that might be described as cathartic, intense, transformational, a crisis, many of which seem to come out of the blue. External events can serve as the catalyst for the beginning of much needed change

The key is to become aware of what must surrendered, what is no longer essential, so that the next stage of personal growth can occur. Here is when the grape meets the press as the juice is extracted slowly so that all that remains is the pulp or core of the grape. We might look at this process and think poor grape! But in fact, it it necessary to experience death of the old so that the new will be reborn. Shamanic cultures see this process as an initiatory experience when we are literally reduced to our bones.

Imagine that you have filled your life with many wonderful accomplishments, positive relationships, and abundance on many levels. You have reached a state of fullness in all areas after a period of expansion and growth. Often such a period can occur in the mid to late thirties after career and family has been created after the transition that occurred during the twenties and marked the entry into official adulthood after the first Saturn return at age 29. For all, this is a time when a major Pluto transit appears on the horizon and heralds a time of change. It is necessary to prune the tree in order for new growth to occur. Or, in contrast, maybe life hasn't been working out all that well and a shake-up is needed. The Pluto square to natal Pluto is the first of the four mid-life transits that happen from age 36-45, but depending on the birth chart, a Plutonian catharsis can happen any time transiting Pluto comes in contact with a natal planet therefore the following excerpt applies to any Pluto transit. Think death and rebirth and you will have entered the realm of Pluto.

Pluto square Pluto

A Time for Transformation and Letting Go

“The old adage for a Pluto transit is that it never asks you to let go of what truly belongs to you, but will take anything else necessary for evolution. Issues having to do with power and control are central here as the intense probe of Pluto begins to uncover what it is that needs releasing. Some keywords for this transit include penetrating, transforming, and scathing as this transit often is the initiator in the monadal (or midlife) process.

Remember Hades, God of the Underworld in Greek mythology, with Pluto, his Roman counterpart. In the myth of Persephone, she was dragged into the underworld by Pluto who took her to be his bride, destroying all of her innocence in the process. When we come face-to-face with a Plutonian transit, whether in square to its natal position or interacting with another planet in the birth chart, a certain degree of naivety needs to be released as the veils are lifted. The personal and collective shadow emerges as areas which are usually avoided for fear of what may be found. Patterns within relationships are particular areas of scrutiny here as are deep, dark personal and family secrets, which the individual has kept at bay. Surrendering to the process in whatever form it takes is the key here.

Each Pluto transit has three phases: shock, paralysis, and rebirth. The intensity of the initial shock cannot be understated as Pluto jolts the area of life needing review. The house and sign being impacted will indicate where the shock occurs, followed by a sense of powerlessness and confusion over how to respond or what action to

take... The third and final phase of rebirth does not usually occur until the end of the transit when the new form has been created.”

from Spiritual Turning Points A Metaphysical Perspective of the Seven Life

Transitions

Question: What Am I Letting Go of Today?

What if we are the sum total of all lives lived? (excerpt from Spiritual Turning Points)

2011-04-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

"When children are born, they may have continuing access to their most recent past incarnation through dreams, night terrors if the life ended abruptly or violently, as well as past life memories that can be surprising in detail. Nature-based cultures tend to pay attention when dreams and memories are shared, often in the form of imaginary play for the young child or in the actual telling of stories such as “I was a tall man who wore long boots” or “I remember riding horses.” Westerners unfortunately lend little credence to these moments of peeking into the past and instead assume they are the creation of a vivid imagination! At about the age of seven, sometimes earlier, the child enters first grade, experiencing the initial Saturn square Saturn transit, i.e., let’s get down to work now and the days of free imagination fade into the background as homework and structured learning become the focus. Even so, as the child matures, the experiences from past lives are an integral part of who he or she is on a soul level and cannot be erased even if memories are not conscious and continue to function as an undercurrent in the life. During early childhood and the primary school years, gifts and talents that were developed in past lives may come to the fore; a budding pianist begins to play technically advanced sonatas as the age of eight, a ten-year-old has an amazing aptitude for mathematics, and a seven-year-old shows grace beyond her years when spending time in prayer at her local church. All of these talents and interests were part of past lives and show up in the present to the amazement of the parents and teachers."

Great Review!

2011-04-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received this message from long time Michael student Mari Lynn that I would like to share. It's rewarding to hear that Spiritual Turning Points is helping so many.

"Victoria--I am now reading your book, you have NO IDEA how much "JUICE" I am getting out of it!!! Holy cow--its, amazing!! As I finish up the 4thIM internal work...yep, I am beginning to enter that "steppin' out" phase 2. I am so grateful to have this book now to validate my experiences.....and, whew--there have been many!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Mari Lynn"

Listen to my Radio Interview!

2011-04-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

I was the featured guest on Contact Radio's Adventures in Density and Effort with Joan Newcomb where I discussed my book Spiritual Turning Points! You can click on the link and it will take you directly to a page where you can download it or listen. Enjoy!

April 12th Radio Interview

What's a Monad Anyway? (Spiritual Turning Points Book excerpt)

2011-04-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

What’s a Monad Anyway?

"A little background on where the term Monad originated: in the 1970s a small group of students of Metaphysics and more specifically George Gurdjieff, an Armenian/Greek mystic and spiritual teacher born in 1866, were meeting in the San Francisco Bay Area. One night while using an Ouija board they contacted Michael, a spirit entity that over time transmitted an entire system of soul evolution to them that was later published in a series of books by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro. As part of this system, the term “monads” began to be used to describe both internal and external experiences.

The Michael Definition of the 7 Internal Monads:

“An Internal Monad is a process that is self-contained and experienced by one fragment as a result of a necessary and pivotal developmental phase....The monads are a process through which maturation occurs and includes the following: Birth, Separation from the Mother or the Terrible Twos, Independence from the Family of Origin, Casting off of the False or Learned Personality, Life Review, the onset of what is Fatal and causes Death, and Death itself or the last breath. We would then define the internal monads as self contained internal “units” of experience.” (Marina-Tompkins c. 2009)

Anthropologist Vic Turner defined the concept of liminality, a threshold state where what has been known is fading away and what will be does not yet exist. In his seminal book ‘Transitions’, William Bridges introduced the concept of 3 transitional segments including a beginning, limbo or neutral state, and an end. Modern psychology includes Jean Piaget’s Stage Theory, Erik Erikson’s 8 Stages of Human Development, and BF Skinner’s studies in child development. All recognize progressive natural stages of human development. The addition of the spiritual or Soul perspective is a key element in understanding these life transitions and helps us to validate the higher truths of reincarnation that are not considered in traditional psychological theories.

The combination of higher spiritual perspectives with the aforementioned psychological studies provides a well-rounded understanding of the nature of human evolution. Singularly they each offer information that helps us accept the rhythms of life. Without the perspective of soul awareness we do not see the larger picture and one that offers us a glimpse into the nature of the Universal truths of reincarnation and choice."

The Art of Living Joyfully

2011-04-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Art of Living Joyfully

"When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy." -Rumi

What is Joy? When we think of living joyfully images of laughing with friends, playing with children, dancing in the aisles when the spirit moves you, may come to mind. Or for some, sitting on a favorite beach, walking in a redwood forest, or making a favorite meal.

A Life Made by Hand. Here we find the key to living authentically we we make choices based on what we feel is true for us, what Speaks to our Soul. It is said that during the middle ages artisans would create personal masterpieces made with stained glass, taking an entire lifetime to create! Each piece of glass added was chosen carefully for color, texture, and design, and not until it was clear that it truly fit into the pieces already in place would it be carefully added on a permanent basis. Over time, a unique and beautiful expression of personal truth would emerge, appreciated by many for years to come.

Modern life really doesn't need to be different in terms of making choices based on personal preferences. For some, a walk in the park at dusk is a joy filled experience while for others, love of family and community offers deep satisfaction. The key here is to enhance the possibilities!

Living in Joy at Home
Common Areas: Creating a positive environment for joy when at home can include eliminating distractions. Take a look at your living room; Is it free from clutter and chaos? Are there old magazines you meant to read sitting around? Things that used to be meaningful but are now taking up space? It might only take an hour to make changes that help to set the stage for a more peaceful and loving feeling at home. For readers, a comfy chair and side table might do the trick while for sports enthusiasts the big screen television with plenty of chair and leg room for visiting friends might offer more comfort for Sunday afternoon get togethers. Feng Shui expert Erica Sofrina counsels to keep the energy moving and clear, free from obstructions that dampen the natural flow of Chi or energy. Sometimes it takes only a few adjustments and the resulting positives can be quite amazing!

In the Bedroom : Ah, the personal sanctuary. Joy in the bedroom can mean different things to different people ranging from deep intimacy to a personal oasis where the world is just outside the door. Is your bedroom filled with objects of meaning for you? Photographs, special gifts that you treasure, favorite books to name a few. Again the key here is to make choices based on what is personally uplifting for you rather than leaving a pile of dirty clothes in the corner!

In the Garden: Not everyone has a garden, of course, but bringing natural elements into your home can embue it with positive energy. Whether it is freshly cut flowers placed throughout the house or a bonsai to tend, the addition of nature into the home can not only help ground you, but also invigorate your life. And, if you are fortunate to have an outdoors living area, then spending time for not only relaxation but also with others can be a way to experience more joy. Another idea is to plant your favorite flowers that you can enjoy! Roses, tulips, Irises, the choices are many. Adding a small seating area where you can read your favorite novel or watch the butterflies can be not only restful but satisfying.

Where to Begin
When you think of it, it's a good idea to start putting ideas to paper so you can use your list as a reference point.

* Make a list of your very favorite things to do and add them to your calendar

* Set a date with a friend for a "play date" that has little or nothing to do with work

* Choose an afternoon when you will be undisturbed and go room to room in your house, noting where you might clear the energy and move things around.

* Remember what your most favorite childhood activity was and do it!

So just for today, fill your life with Joy. You won't regret it!

upcoming article: Living Authentically and the Voice of Fear
"Old Friends" Photo by Victoria Marina-Tompkins

Into the Silence

2011-04-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Today I found myself listening to the silence between sounds. At first, I was drawn to my spring garden where birds are singing, tibetan chimes are ringing, coastal winds are blowing.

What a delight it was!

Not that I am unfamiliar with silence; my work requires long periods where cessation of sound is a a necessity as I listen to the quiet voice, the channeled voice, that will, hopefully, shed insight for my clients who have gifted me with their questions. Most days I wake early when it is still quiet outside so as not to be disturbed by the day! What an amusing thought that is! Still, (alert, causal plane humor aboard :-) ) I do seek out quiet times so that I can clearly hear the voice I have learned to recognize through the years.

Even so, today, once my work was done, became an adventurous day as I focused my attention on those in between places, those silences after the "ring" and before the next sound of the chime. I let my attention drift into the singing of our local Robin, a merry little song with little time between one round and the next. The cars are passing on the coast highway, only a few blocks from here, a steady stream of background noise for awhile, then silence before the next vehicles pass by. Clocks ticking, dog barks, people talking. All the sounds of the day with moments of silence scattered in here and there.

Listening in this way quieted my own mind and need to talk to others about all those random ideas running through my head. Another surprise! I became part of the silence save the clicking of keys on my laptop, also replete with spaces dependent upon my thoughts and how I executed them, how they were penned so to speak of course. I have landed in a rich landscape, fertile with introspection and quietude. Wondrous it is.....

Radio Interview Tuesday April 12th 3pm PDT!

2011-04-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday marks my first radio interview about Spiritual Turning Points when I will be talking with radio host Joanne Newcomb on her show Adventures in Density and Effort. http://www.contacttalkradio.com/hosts/joannewcomb.html

“Adventures in Density & Effort” is a lighthearted look at life on Playground Earth. We are Spirit manifesting through bodies in physical reality. As Spirit we are joyous, expansive, infinite and all-knowing. What would be fun for a Being that has everything? A reality of limitations, dichotomies and opposites! (To paraphrase the Genie from Disney’s “Aladdin” – we all have phenomenal cosmic powers squeezed into an itty bitty living space)!

All from the comfort of your desktop computer or Ipad!

Artwork by Daniel Holeman

LIFE TRANSITION SIX: Exit Points (Book Excerpt)

2011-04-04T11:06:00.000-07:00

LIFE TRANSITION SIX: The Onset of Whatever Will be Fatal

Excerpted from Spiritual Turning Points

EXIT POINTS

"These unique moments are in fact planned for by essence and represent the intersection between unresolved past life energies that have been carried forward to the present and the current life. I like to describe Exit Points as opportunities to get off the freeway of life when things aren’t going so well or resolving the past life blockage and continuing with the present lifetime when things are going nicely.

Take for example a young woman who died at the age of 18 in her past life when she drowned in a river. She has reincarnated and now her 3rd monad is in full swing with all the ups and downs of teenage behavior. One weekend she decides to go swimming with a friend and even through she is not enamored of being in the water, she jumps in the deep end when prompted by her friend to loosen up and have a good time. Several others jump in after her and somehow she gets pushed down to the bottom of the pool where she ingests quite a bit of water in her attempts to free herself and rise to the surface. In that moment the father of her friend sees what is happening, jumps in to save her and does as he pulls her to the surface. Within a few minutes paramedics arrive, they administer first aid, and her life is saved.

If prior to this moment Kerrie’s life had been seriously off track, or if she had been depressed and unable to proceed, she could have chosen this moment as her exit point and the issue related to drowning would not have been resolved. She was, however, doing well prior to this event, so she chose to work through the situation and create a different outcome, i.e. survival instead of drowning and therefore released the past life energies."

New Book Review!

2011-03-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

"In my psychotherapy practice, Spiritual Turning Points is proving itself extremely useful: so many of the problems we encounter in life are related to the struggle between the wishes of the personality and the mandates of the soul. Through the multiple and esoteric lenses of causal plane teachings, shamanism and astrology, Marina-Tompkins has created a clear, concise and readable manual that describes and supports the soul's passage through physical life. I highly recommend Spiritual Turning Points for anyone trying to find their way--and that includes everyone!" "Merideth Bowen Shamszad, MA

Artwork by Daniel Holeman

Favorite Blogs from Our Archives

2011-03-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

How We Evolve: The Nature of Intimacy

According to the Michael Teachings

“By intimacy we mean, of course, valid Essence contact. This is the only source of growth and evolution, for it is the only function of love. Essence contact is the purpose of love, if it is necessary for love to be perceived as having a purpose. It is more accurate that essence contact IS love, untrammeled by the distortions of species or the chief features of the Overleaves. When true intimacy occurs, all that is “there” for the contact is Essence and casting order. All else is “set aside”. from Michael's People by CQ Yarbro

The Basics:
Essence contact is sometimes experienced as quiet, restful, expansiveness, being "one" with the Universe, a “dropping away” of the personality. It is not the “fireworks” of body type attraction but can be experienced during sexual interactions.

Essence contact is always with another fragment (not with self) and can be occasionally experienced when out of physical proximity to the other fragment. This is usually with cadence and entity mates, essence twin or task companion.

The Positive Poles of 5 of the Overleaves need be in effect for Essence Contact to occur.

Essence contact can occur when the higher centers are activated but cannot occur when they are not.

There are no “tricks” to Essence contact, it is “simple”.

The chief features and fear tend to distort and invalidate the experience, but once it is validated by the fragment, it cannot be erased.

Being in the moment with no expectations leads to more awareness and intimacy.

LIFE TRANSITION THREE: Independence of Spirit

2011-03-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

LIFE TRANSITION THREE Independence of Spirit (Book Excerpt)

The Choice of Defense Systems (Adolescence)

"It is during this transition that the personality chooses for better or for worse the primary and secondary defense systems that it will use during the course of the rest of this incarnation. These defenses are based on real-life experiences that have occurredsince birth and usually have to do with the family of origin in some capacity but also with interactions with those outside the sphere of the home. The seven core fears are those ofinadequacy, loss of control, worthlessness, change, loss, vulnerability, and missing out, two of which are usually chosen sometime during this transition with the primary occurring at the onset. External events can serve as the trigger: An illness prevents Susana from attending her first dance (disappointment); Mark is not allowed to pursue his dream of becoming a dancer due to familial expectations (worthlessness, loss); or Michaela’s mother dies during her freshman year in high school (loss, vulnerability). After these defenses are chosen, they become the core of what is called the False Self and when they are in control, it is very difficult to access the True Nature which is based love rather than fear. Under times of duress these defenses become very active, but also function as an undercurrent throughout life, much of the time remaining nearly invisible but still controlling the perceptions of the individual.

It is not uncommon for life to “heat up” for the six to twelve months prior to the onset of the third transition so in realty it doesn’t begin suddenly but is the culmination of a chain of events resulting in the choice of the primary defenses. To the external eye, it may appear that a teenager who has been doing well in school rather dramatically starts failing classes, spending more time with his or her peer group oftentimes to the consternation of the parents, and begins to identify with the chosen sub-culture: Goths, skaters, achievers, cheerleaders, usually in stark contrast to the family picture. Acts of rebellion are typical during this stage and can be especially challenging if the teen is young, that is between the ages of twelve and fifteen, and it is not unusual for relationships with parental and other authority figures to become contentious and conflict laden at this time. Some push the envelope a little, some a lot, and some every now and then with many factors influencing how this transition unfolds."

LIFE TRANSITION SEVEN: Death and the Astral Plane Interval (Book excerpt)

2011-03-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

LIFE TRANSITION SEVEN: Death and the Astral Plane Interval

After Death

"During the process of planning the next lifetime, a review of past lives as well as the past lives of those souls with whom many lives have been shared will be necessary. If karma exists, that is to say if any debts are owed by you or to you, then these debts may become part of the upcoming life plan. The Akashic Plane is a higher plane of consciousness that stores the records of all physical plane events, a library that can be referenced during the review and planning process. Imagine having access to all your lives in great detail as well as all the lives of your soul family where you can examine all choices made and lessons learned as you mull over the possibilities.

But it’s not all about work. One of the benefits of being on the astral plane is the freedom from suffering that we experience while physically incarnate which then gives us access to more joy. The truth is, we have the ability to experience joy all the time but all too often become tangled in fear while keeping joy at bay. During our time on the astral plane, we have plentiful opportunities to play, merge, blend, and explore states of being without the limitations of the physical body. We remember that love is the highest truth, something that can be forgotten while we are incarnate on the physical plane."

Spiritual Turning Points Now Available on IBooks for Apple Iphone and IPad

2011-03-10T09:23:00.000-08:00

Very exciting, we are now avaialble as an ebook through the Apple IBookstore! If you own an Apple IPhone or IPad, you can now download directly through Apple. This link is to the IBooks application through ITunes, and if you don't the app already, you can download it here. Once you have the application installed, then search for Spiritual Turning Points for download!

IBOOKS

When Death Knocks at Your Door: Musings on the Love of a Dog

2011-03-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

On Friday after a relatively short illness, I made the most compassionate choice I could and took my darling Rosie, a ten year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, into the vet to be put down. She had been diagnosed with Mitral Valve Disease in 2007, the bane of the CKCS world as it ranks highest as the cause of death for Cavaliers and a disease that many reputable breeders are seeking to eradicate. But, I digress....

In the Michael work it's said that animals are part of a hive soul and not individually incarnating fragments as are humans. I have long accepted this as true but came face to face with it as I held Rosie while they injected the serum that would cause her death, as I heard her last breath, as I felt her heart stop. I knew her little spirit was gone, that it has returned from where it originally came, that she was no longer suffering. But she had SUCH a personality, and one that was so different than my boy Jazzie, that I began to wonder about the hive soul and our animal companions.

Universal Truth: All sentient species (like humans, cetaceans) have pets.

I believe this to be true probably because it sounds a little whacky, and probably because in a strange way it makes sense. Isn't it true that our animal companions are non judgmental, unconditionally loving and accepting? That those of us who let the love of a beloved one into our hearts, whether they are human or canine (or other), that we open ourselves up to love and the possibility of loss? We can't avoid loss but we can choose to avoid love. We can keep ourselves closed off for fear of pain, or we can love openly and joyfully, embracing the beauty of companionship.

I still don't know what is true about the hive soul with any degree of certainty, but I will be sure to look for my Rosie when I make my own transition as I create my own reality on the astral plane. I know I will see her tail wagging again and her sweet muzzle on my face.