Chasing Dreams

No one ever warned me, that chasing dreams is no easy feat. And of course for me, I always learn the hard way. I find a destination, or rather it finds me, I set my mind to it, work long hours to save up the cash, and boom, I'm there. Although towards the end of my adventures, I tend to find myself in a pit, slightly stressed by my financial crisis, when all is said and done, everything always works out anyways. And it could go either way, either it works out or it doesn't, what are you going to do about it? We may as well choose the better of the two.

After 22 long days of traveling, I have made it to my current destination, Aspen, Colorado. I set off from Orlando, Florida with two of my best friends, nearly all of my belongings and Josh's too, in a small truck. We kind of went with the flow, settling in places suitable and we knew people in most stops. I saw the seasons change from the East to West, and met many faces along the way. The scenery's and landscapes that met my eye fulfilled my dream images of America and the long hours it took to get to where I now sit, were all worth the hassle. I spent about 19 days on the road, one morning on a plane, and three bus rides to get to this small mountain town.

I am beginning a new phase in my life, as I like to say, peeling the pages of a new chapter. I don't know many people here and I've never lived outside of Florida, but I have a strong feeling in my heart that I'll do just fine. And as any human does, I do have my doubts about life, but I always try to put em' on the back burner. I spent all day contemplating loneliness, and although this is the first day that I've been completely alone, I didn't really feel that way.

I rode my friends bike around town and popped into, Two Old Hippies music store. I played a couple guitars and one of the employees befriended me. As timing played out, a couple hours later he picked me up and we hung out for the whole night. I love going along with strangers only to become friends. My first night in Aspen was not so lonesome after all. This was God's way of telling me, everything is going to work out Steph, everything is gonna be alright.

Needless to say, I won't ever stop chasing my dreams, I've had this vision for countless years and to have made a cross country dream trip I call 'The Great American Adventure', which inevitably led me to my dream life in Aspen is beyond me. I suppose I should really sulk in the moments I've made and truly appreciate the last few weeks. It's been such an adventure.

So, people, don't get too comfortable, let go of security, talk to people who are different than you, get yourself out into the world, it's waiting for you. In a song I wrote a few years ago..."Chasing dreams, so it seems, I'm going places."

Black & White [colors]

If people had eyes, then why doesn't everything appear to be beautiful. Yeah, there's always going to be an ugly truth, but it doesn't mean we have to sulk in it. I like to find the beauty in all things black and white. Lean towards the brighter side of life. Live a little. It's totally okay to have fun. Take life with a grain of salt, even if it's a bit too much for your taste buds. Believe me, it's much easier that way.

... oh and don't forget to smile! 

Vision

Don't ever think that you will not make it far. We all have eyes and we all have the ability to see, even if we are seeing with our hearts. We must all have a vision.

It's all the little things that sometimes get us down. We allow so many obstacles to distract us from our goals which keep us far from reaching the end. In times like these it is essential to take a step outside of the box, to gaze inward, in order to see what is truly going on. Our minds easily trick us into doubt and self-destruction. But, how much easier could it be if we simply said, "no!" to these attacks. Your mind is not your enemy, it is your friend. But, we've all got to learn how to maintain our thoughts, then our actions will follow.

When we have a vision, we have motivation. The beautiful images painted in our minds, gives us reason to work towards something amazing. It is essential to believe in our dreams. Never think that it is unattainable, because at that slightest thought, you are making it impossible for yourself. It is simply a matter of when, not if! Patience, persistence, and a heart of hope will guide you swiftly to your dreams. Now that is a vision worth working towards.

Always have a vision. Always have a dream. Always believe in yourself. Your spirit will flourish.

Risk

                                                                     “Live, travel, adventure, bless, and don't be sorry.” 
                                                                                                         ― Jack Kerouac

It is in our innate nature to take risks. From the early beginnings of humanity until present day, man has relied upon risk for survival. Hunter gatherers needed to take risks at an attempt to capture their prey, an act that could have meant death. If not for risk, the human population would not have made it this far. Risk runs thick in our blood.

To take a risk is to step outside of our comfort zone, to leave behind a world that is all too familiar to us. One may wonder, why take a chance, why risk it all? Well, for those who don't know, constantly chasing after the unknown, is like trying to quench a thirst that only risk can satisfy. Living a life of uncertainty may be illogical and dangerous, but it brings forth feelings of accomplishment and an adrenaline rush that can't be beat. Thriving on risk is like no other.


True adventure can only be witnessed through the eyes of a risk-taker, willing to lose it all. This world is too big and too beautiful to let it all slip by. If you really want to know the secret of living a real life, this is it... to leave your bubble that you call home and venture to a foreign land. Take with you what you need, leave behind the rest. Carry an open mind and a pocket full of courage. You will see the world how it really is and it will make you a better person, undoubtedly. So I end on this note...

Don't be afraid to get lost, it's scarier to never find yourself at all.

Forever

I want to live free, forever. I want to be led by the Spirit of love, forever. I desire to be close to Him forever. I will strive to lead a life as simple and as pure as I am capable of, forever. I will be a beautiful soul forever. You know, there are many distractions in this world that keep us from becoming who we are meant to be, that keep us from finding truth in this life. However, for me I am blessed to have found the sunlit path.

I could sit here and question, why me? But, instead I am grateful for the way my life has been unraveling. For the past three years, I have been finding the answers that help me to become a better person every single day. It is by the grace of God that I could have the opportunity to shine so bright. There is beauty all around me and the more I learn, the closer I get to my higher destiny. I am constantly meeting people who make my day, or whom I am given a chance to brighten theirs. I may be only one little girl in this big world, but I am making a huge difference.

I don't mean on a large scale. I don't have any desires to make a huge impression on the human population. I don't need fame nor fortune to feel like I've changed the world, made it a better place. I am simply content with a smile a day. I have this belief that if I've made one person smile a day, then I've made a significant difference in the world. By sharing my love with those around me in a purely giving way, I am doing more than what is asked of me, I am being faithful. I may not have all the means to support a million people, but what little I have and what little I share, is plenty.

When you feel like you've not done enough, just think of what you do have and what you can do for the world. You can change the world. As a matter of fact, you are changing the world. When you find your reflection staring back, say to yourself, it's not what you're looking at, it's what you see. What do you see? You can be forever free.


In this life, beyond everything ugly in this world, look around and see the wondrous beauty.
"We must be the change we wish to see in the world." - Ghandi.

                                                                         Photo by: Will Corvatte

The Art of Happiness

I am not perfect, I am not an angel, I am not a saint. I am a human, constantly stirred by my emotions. The ups and downs that carry me through life are like the valleys and rivers of a mountain range. When I overcome one hill, standing atop, I am only led to realize that there are going to be many more downhill treks before I am to reach my next height. And when I climb the next hill, I am stronger, greater than I was before. But, sometimes when I am standing tall, surrounded by distant obstacles and past trails, I become overwhelmed with the sight before me.

How many times have you reached you're desired destination, only to find that you have many more miles to go? We humans have the tendency to think that when all is falling into place, nothing may go wrong. For me, when circumstances work in my favor, I become overjoyed with gratitude and contentment, yet it is times like these that sometimes pave way for my destruction.

When I am standing on the top of my world, often I forget to see the things that could cause distraction from furthering my goals. And when I let my guard down, this is when I am vulnerable to attacks, whether it be my own mind or an outsiders aggression.

Yet, a midst times like these, I know what I must do to persevere, and then again it is times like these, that it is so hard for me to listen to my own advice... staying true to myself is what I must always do to make it back to the top, however distant the travel.

We all struggle, we all strive, we all want to be apart of something greater then ourselves. We all yearn to live our dreams. And in order to pursue such aspirations, we must always know that happiness is an intangible gift, only given from ourselves to ourselves. I learned the hard way, that investing happiness in another being, is like walking on a pirate's plank. Teetering at the edge of a tiny surface, I could have dropped at any moment, with no ground in sight. And when I realized that happiness is what comes from the inside, I was at peace.

The art of happiness is a creation of the soul, pouring from the inside, out into the Universe. Overflowing with love, happiness is a signature of bliss, of peace, of euphoria. It is the laughter that floods our mouths, the smiles that burn our cheeks, and  the eyes of a dreamer, a dreamer who walks the valleys and crosses the rivers without giving up hope, the dreamer who pursues her goals, trying not to look back, eyes forward. I am a dreamer destined to climb to the highest mountain peak, and when I am standing atop, I will cherish the happiness that will consume me.

Give Wholeheartedly

Last Sunday I was nearing the end of my shift at work. While I was standing at the front of the restaurant ready to clock out, a woman walks in with her child in a stroller. She asked, "Do you know where there is a church where I can pick up some pampers for my baby?" I am unfamiliar with the surrounding area so I was, so I thought, useless. However, after realizing that none of my co-workers could or would help her, it suddenly hit me... (Steph, you must help her!)

I quickly spoke up before she could turn her back, I looked her in the eyes and timidly said, "I'll help you." This woman was practically startled, she couldn't comprehend the idea of a stranger helping her in such a way. But, I reassured her, I was willing to help.

We walked across the street to the market to buy the pampers. I was on a mission to change this ladies day. I had not the slightest clue how pricey pampers were, but I tried to zone the money matters out. All I really cared about was that I was embracing the act of giving.

As we strolled up the aisle where the pampers lay stashed, I asked the mother what her babies name was. His name is Christian, 2 years old. I glimpsed down at him as he sat there with a smile pasted to his face, his young eyes sparkling. Words truly cannot describe the feeling Christian gave me in that moment.

As we approached check-out the woman was telling me how she isn't used to asking for help. Her whole life she's tried to make it on her own living in New York City. I told her how important it is to never be hesitant in asking others for help, because I know for one, I'd not be where I am today if I hadn't asked. And for two, she wouldn't have met me if she didn't feel the need to ask her initial question.

Giving wholeheartedly always leaves me with such a vibrant feeling. I strive to live my life according to the virtue of treating others the way I want to be treated. And I always try to remember the times when I needed help the most, and those people who gave to me with their heart.

Mariane, was her name, and she was a blessing in disguise. Although I had provided her with a deed, it was she who uplifted me. And in return, I uplifted her. 

One Love

"So, why do you go by the name One Love?", I asked, as we walked over to my car for inspection. He responded, "Because, One Love a blessing," and warmly chuckled. I repeated to myself what he had just said in a low whisper as if it all made sense, I smiled. Right then and there, I knew this would be a very interesting encounter.

We made our way back to his small auto shop garage and briefly discussed prices for a minor repair on my four wheeled creature. But onto the more important stuff...

Following this conversation, he grabbed a book that bore great character. The original book being published in 1925, I could see the age and perfection of a book that has been read many times before. The faded blue hardcover with yellowing pages, were all a grand introduction to the golden etched title, "The Law of Success". It was quite apparent how appreciative One Love was to have such a book in his possession as he held it close to his chest upon presenting it to me. I could tell he couldn't wait to share with me.

He took a seat at his small square desk and began to skim through the pages. I asked if I could take a peek and stumbled across a message that stuck out like a sore thumb. "Enthusiasm is the sparkle in your eyes, the swing in your gait, the grip of your hand, the irresistible surge of will, and energy to execute your ideas." (Henry Ford)

Isn't it so important to carry enthusiasm wherever we go. It is this characteristic which enables us to stay motivated and moving, carrying us forward towards our desires and goals. When we forget what it is we are striving for, maybe we should take a moment to reflect on the beginnings of our journey toward a specific goal, to picture a moment when we had the brightest sparkles in our eyes, for that sparkle is the sheerest sign of success.

When that sparkle is reignited I like to believe it is our inner light shining outward, allowing us to harmonize with the Universe. The sparkle in One Love's eyes gave me comfort and confidence that we can all be successful if we believe in ourselves.

Transform. Transgress. Truly express the Oneness that we all share. We are One Love.

 

Optimistically Sunny

This morning when I was putting my surfboard in the trunk of my roommates car, I waved hello to my neighbor. He asked if I knew what the weather was looking like for the day and I responded with a smile, "optimistically sunny." But in all actuality, the sky was heavily clouded with a layer of gray and I had the feeling the sun wouldn't be shining. However, I was thinking in terms of a metaphor.

So many times people are too concerned with what the weather will look like for the day, the next or even the following week. On the other hand, I rarely question what our Mother Earth will be bringing us. The weather is as unpredictable as the motion of the ocean (mocean). Rather than trying to revolve our days around what the weather "might" look like, let us follow the day as it comes.

We shouldn't wait around for the sun to shine, because if you look deep enough, the sun is always shining on the inside, it's just a matter of recognizing that inner light. And besides more than half the times I've ever "relied" on a meteorologist for my daily forecast, they were wrong. That says enough in itself.

The Last Sunset

So, even though today I didn't see a lick of sunshine, I still went through with what I was compelled to do. Sunday was enough sun for me. And tomorrow, if it rains or shines, I'll be just as content with what falls on me.

"You don't know the first thing about tomorrow. You're nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing." James 4:13-15

Inspired

Feelings of Freedom

I am filled with such positive energy which supplies me with the spirit of free will. From the moment I opened my eyes today, til the moment I lay my head to rest again, I have been genuinely happy. The day has been nothing but comfort and contentment.

I arose this early morning with an energy that flung me out of bed. The subtle sunshine of dawn crept through the bedroom windows, gently resting on my face. I could sense the beginnings of a good day. An intense desire to play guitar filled my heart, which led me to the living room to fetch a guitar. I giddily made my way back to bed and let the beautiful tunes flow for the next hour. The creativity which I experienced paved way for the rest of my day. All of the things I have accomplished today, lead me to this moment in which I now sit and reflect.

The inspiration bleeding through my veins seems endless in supply. I could say I feel this way because of the people in my day, in my life. After watching a travel/surf/climbing documentary about men exploring the world in which their greatest desires are fulfilled, I am sure that if they can do it, I can. After reading a letter from a dear friend residing in Hawaii, enclosed with a picturesque scenery taken on a polaroid, I am confident, my dreams will come true.While writing a letter in response to my dear friend, I formulated a saying in my mind. I wrote, "write down your desires on paper, they will become the story of your life."

Ever since I began writing down my goals for the year on a piece of paper and tacking it to my bedroom wall, I noticed that these goals, without too much effort, became realities. And as for my long term goals, they are permanent on my heart, they will come true in due time. What I'm really trying to say here is that good things will come, work through the knots, and eventually the surface will smooth itself. We are all wandering this earth trying to fit in, to find purpose. And we will. Let your energy radiate from the inside out. And when opportunities knock, open the door and find that they will help you grow as a person.

We are all beings of infinite energy. Let your energy flow & be inspired.

Balance

Many times life can seem out of control, almost unbearable. But when we take a step outside of the box, to look inward at the circumstances we are dealing with, it gives us a chance to see that the problems we find to be so burdensome are really just a figment of our mind. We allow ourselves to become so caught up in ourselves, delving deeper into our thoughts, that we just worsen the situation. When one problem leads to another, the next thing you know you've dug yourself into a deep dark hole.

Fortunately, our minds are more powerful than we think. It is within our reach, to change the reality we live in. Last night at a seminar I attended, Swami G. stated that, "If we can take care of our minds, everything else will be taken care of." We must teach our minds to visualize positivity, in order to work ourselves out of the ditch. Pain and suffering does not have to be as agonizing as we make it out to be.

A healthy balance of mind, body, soul, is the key to inner peace. It is essential to treat our bodies as best we can. And when our bodies are healthy, our mental clarity is richer. And when our physical and mental beings are aligned, our soul has room to grow.

So, people, allow yourselves to see the glass as half full! When you stumble, pick yourself back up, brush off the dirt, put a smile on that pretty face, and keep on walking. The path that has been paved for you is beautiful.

When the Sun Rises

I awoke at 4:38am to banging on my window, "Steph, wake up!" I scurried to my phone to see what time it was, only to find that Todd had called me twice in my sleep. I was ready in a heartbeat and to the coast we went. The first thing I did as I lept across the front yard to the van was scope out the sky up above, to admire the stars. What I saw was unlike anything I've ever witnessed. The usual hour and a half drive to Ponce Inlet along the back country roads was swift and serene. As we neared Dunlawton and A1A, we caught a glimpse of the sea, a glassy perfection, waves rolling in.  Fifteen more minutes to go and we would arrive at Ponce, a mystical place. There were already cars packed in the parking lot. The dawn patrol crowd  was on it. About 6:00am and Todd and I were jogging to the coastline. What I saw was a beautiful design. 


We beat the sunrise. When I looked up at the sky I saw what I had first laid my eyes upon earlier in my morning. Three beautiful stars, aligned to fit a triangle. One of the stars was the brightest I have ever seen in my entire life. It was captivating. And the moon was a skinny sliver of glowing light. The sun was climbing its way out of the sea, yet to reach a mountain range of deep gray clouds. As I paddled to the outside, I was surrounded by the quietness of the still morning, my skin caressed by cool Atlantic waters. I would occasional peek my head up above the waves in between paddling, to find a perfect picture painted in the sky. 


I was so thankful that I could be just where I was, in that special moment I was meant to be in. With the passing hour, the sun had risen above the clouds, leaving faint trails of pinkish red smeared into the sky. I found myself staring into the distant light, filling my soul with respect for a new day. With each curling wave, the sunlight created a green glow, shining through, one of my favorite sites to see during sunrise sessions.

My morning surf was nothing shy of fulfilling. Today was a great day, I couldn't have imagined starting my Monday any differently.When we awake, let us give thanks to another breath, another opportunity to make something of ourselves. Let the sunrise fill us with peace and ingenuity to take on a new day. We are free.

Tomorrow

Today is a new day. We are up and ready to go. Most likely we are in a rush, trying to be somewhere else. The mysteries unfold as we approach our destination. And strangely enough, we are worried about tomorrow.

There are so many thoughts on my mind and I am busy wondering about moments that have yet to occur. I am passing obstacles, attempting to beat the clock.  I am anything but still. I am anywhere but here, mentally at least.

We are so consumed by our everyday responsibilities and the things we must do tomorrow and the day after that. Everything around us is so distracting and more times, often than not, our thoughts are farther ahead of us than we are. What if I could be in Hawaii? What if I was driving across country with no deadlines? What if I were sitting atop the ocean with nothing else to do? Reality check folks, your not there, you are here!

Instead of filling our thoughts with many questions and images of places we'd rather be, why not focus on our current reality? We should be grateful for what is around us. Take a breather, and recognize that our surrounding environment can help us achieve our dreams and can help us to be content in the Now. For everything we do is really a means to an end. If I am here, there is no doubt, that it is for a reason. I'd like to think that this reason is to bring me closer to what I truly want in life.

Be positive, think of how you can make today the best it possibly can be, and smile in the moment, because really, that's all we have. Tomorrow will come, as will fresh opportunities. Let go of yesterday, forget about next week, and rejoice in the Now! Trust me, it will make life a lot easier.

"...God will keep you so happy that you won't have time to worry about each day."
Ecclesiastics 7:5

Unexpected Turns

Unexpected turns are necessary if we are to really find our way. For it takes getting lost to be found. But, where there is a shadow of darkness, there are rays of light.

We all have those days where we feel a bit down, when one thing goes wrong, everything else seems to crumble. Maybe we thought we were walking in the right direction, nothing could be better and then all of a sudden, we've led ourselves astray, lost on a dark and dreary road. The good news is, this shade of gray isn't permanent. It may not be my promise, but there is always a hope buried beneath the worry. I was recently burdened with difficulties that seemed to fall into a downward spiral, one after the other. But, beyond the unrest, I knew that I would be okay. I kept the faith and believed that all would work out for the better. Well, by the end of last week, I must say, I was smiling brighter than a thousand suns. I didn't give up because I knew that somewhere underneath this rubble was a beautiful light. Needless to say, we will all be okay. If we pursue our hearts truest intentions and follow our dreams, everything will unravel into a beautiful masterpiece.


Always remember, 
"We may think we are doing the right thing, but the Lord always knows what is in our hearts."
Proverbs 21:2