“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou, American poet and civil rights activist

I can’t believe we’re on the last stretch of 2022 and preparing to enter 2023 already! How are you doing? Are you enjoying your holidays? I know that they can feel overwhelming at times especially if you are entertaining. I find that when I feel overwhelmed it’s a good time to stop ‘doing’ and ‘be’. What do I mean? Being calm, centered, and introspective helps me. I take a few deep breaths and return to my inner monastery where my inner light burns bright. Some of you may find it by imagining an inner candle burning bright. In that moment of calmness I ask, “What is most important right now? What do I want my guests to experience?” With calm and clarity I realize that when my guests leave I want them to ‘feel’ good and welcomed. I want them to feel loved, heard, and appreciated!

As my inner light shines and the flame of my candle burns brightly I feel it expanding and spreading throughout every cell and fiber of my being. A warmth follows from within. I feel grateful and filled with grace and love. I no longer feel overwhelmed. Persian poet, Islamic scholar and Sufi mystic, Rumi, has said, “There is a candle in your mystic heart, ready to be kindled. There is a void in your soul, ready to be filled. You feel it, don’t you?” What does this void represent to you and what fills it? During this holiday time as I prepare for guests and feel overwhelmed I respond to the yearning of my soul and imagine the candle within my heart burning bright. I remember what’s important and allow grace and love to fill the void. I remember who I am and my connection with God/Goddess/All That Is, Source. I remember how I want my guests to ‘feel’.

This is another way to take care of yourself so that the holidays can be enjoyed in good health. Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, has said, “If we do not know how to take care of ourselves and to love ourselves, we cannot take care of the people we love. Loving oneself is the foundation for loving another person.” Love yourself enough so that you and your guests ‘feel’ loved, heard, and appreciated when they return home.

Love yourself enough so that your guests remember how you made them ‘feel’. Love yourself enough to take the memories of how you felt with you always! They will take theirs with them!

Please take a few moments during this busy time to ‘feel’ the candle in your heart and to remember what’s important. Let your light reach out and shine brightly for others. Remember to seek understanding; be kind and compassionate. Holidays can be challenging for many people in ways that we don’t know. I will hold space for you and send you lots of love. Enjoy your week!

I’m available for private coaching and channeled information sessions at Storm Wisdom on Tuesdays from 1p – 6p by appointment. Please call Storm Wisdom, (602)334-1204 to schedule. I’m also available by phone or Zoom. To schedule please go to victoriabarna.com.