“And remember, we all stumble, every one of us .This is why it is good to go hand in hand.” E. K. Brough

******

You may believe life was easier before you “woke up”. Before you developed consciousness. Before you recognized the world was filled with both “awakened” and “sleeping” souls. Before you saw GOD in everyone. Before you looked within to deal with daily drama.

Living consciously is not an easier path. It doesn’t mean you make perfect decisions. Just like most others sharing this little globe called Earth, you sometimes make choices based on your ego’s reactions.

This is part of your humanity; it doesn’t mean that you don’t lose sight of the big picture. As spiritual beings having a human experience, we are blessed because we are always given the chance to look back and re-evaluate.

Living consciously simply means that you reflect on your moments, your days, and your life experiences in general. You strive to forgive encounters with everyone reacting towards you.

Then, you practice forgiving yourself for the moments you REACT instead of truly “seeing” any given situation for what it really is. You work (a daily practice) to stay in the present moment.

Living consciously, you feel gratitude for the times you recognized the divinity in others, as well as, yourself. You feel empowered when you make conscious decisions, especially when those around you are in “reaction mode”. (Yes, it’s easy, for each and every one of us, to fall back into old habits.)

Living consciously isn’t an easier way to live, but it does lead to a peaceful life: a life with more love, wisdom and compassion. When we are successful at this, we don’t judge others or ourselves. We feel love and compassion for all.

“That which we are, we are, and if we are ever to be any better, now is the time to begin.” Lord Alfred Tennyson
——————————–

Tonja Edgecomb is a valued contributing writer of the DOTS team. She is also a psychic intuitive and healing practitioner. Tonja graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in education. Through a program of self-directed study and independent research she has studied metaphysical science and comparative religion.

She became a certified hypnotherapist at the New England School of Clinical Hypnotherapy. Tonja is a member of The American Association of Holistic Health and The National Guild of Hypnotists.

Tonja brings 24 year of teaching experience and curriculum development to her practice. She leads workshops, seminars and classes for people of all ages. She is a holistic life coach and spiritual teacher. She produces a weekly inspirational podcast with an international audience. She strives to meet the unique needs of each client while working with them to achieve their individual goals for more satisfying lives.

Tonja is an ordained minister, wife, mother and grandmother. She is an avid reader and gardener.

http://tonjaedgecomb.com/
http://tonjaedgecombhypnosis.com
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/im-the-inspirational-message/id283696169
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tonja-Edgecomb-MMSC-CH/125234383582?ref=ts

A DOTS Reader earnestly asks: “How do I recognize and dispel the negative energy around me? Something is in my way, keeping me from claiming what I know is mine.”

Watch/Hear Alan’s answer via a beautiful video produced by Kim Hanson! You can do this now with a QUICK CLICK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sj4Jz3AiCOk&feature=youtu.be

“Surrender is faith that the power of love can accomplish anything—even when you can not foresee the outcome.” Deepak Chopra

****************

DOTS executive editor Sandra Cline knows ALAN KINNER personally. This she knows to be true: Alan is truly a wise soul with High Intention—his goal is to raise the vibration of the planet—thus helping as many people as possible. He often does this with no small amount of humor—EXHIBIT A: Alan’s wonderful, hand-painted HUMOR ROCKS!

Alan has a god-given Gift—one that has allowed him to connect with the “other” world since childhood. This curiosity ultimately led him upon an unusual path—he has studied the art of metaphysics throughout his life and has professionally practiced as a psychic-intuitive for over 25 years.

By way of witty, insightful, and creative readings, Alan has brought spiritual insight to clients located across the world. BTW, he was also a featured channeler for “Sedona Magazine” !!!

Alan enjoys creating a sacred space which nurtures and honors each person’s Soul Journey—ensuring an opportunity for growth and empowerment. DOTS is honored to have Alan be a part of our team and we are blessed by his generous offer to provide micro-readings for DOTS readers.

If you are interested in having Alan channel a micro -reading for you, try to choose a question that relates to your Soul Purpose, Life Mission, and Overall Spiritual Journey. Each DOTS micro-reading will be professionally individualized to help you open your awareness—-and remind you of who you really are.

[PLEASE NOTE: There are no guarantees that your question will be answered. Alan will choose questions that have the greatest potential for relevance (and interest) to the lives of many other DOTS readers.]

Submit your question via e-mail at: info@autumnleavespublishing.com (The SUBJECT LINE should read: ASK ALAN)

For mote detailed information about Alan Kinner—his Services (including phone readings!), his Humor Rocks, and more—please visit his awesome website: http://www.alankinner.com/

“The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you’ll discover will be wonderful. What you’ll discover is yourself.”
Alan Alda

The NOTABLE creation that Dance of the Spirit spotlights today is a brilliant video project—an idea based on palindromes, submitted as a contest entry by a 25-year-old young man named Jonathon, a film student attending Columbia College in Chicago.

The contest was titled “u @ 50″ and was sponsored by the AARP. This particular video won second place. After it was shown, everyone in the room was awestruck; then, the audience broke into spontaneous applause.

As you know, a palindrome reads the same backward and forward. The word “palindrome” is derived from the Greek “palíndromos”—meaning “running back again”. Some simple examples are: RACECAR, DEED, LEVEL, and PIP.

A palindrome can also be a phrase that reads the same in both directions. As you are about to see, if you group the lines (instead of individual letters) in a clever way, the story reveals itself to have the opposite meaning—from bottom to top.

It is a delight to discover that this one is extremely creative and enlightened!

Even though this “You Tube” video runs for only 1 minute and 44 seconds, the result is nothing short of BRILLIANT. Listen intently as you follow along while reading the words.

In our opinion, this young person is what is known as a “crystal soul”, an old soul here to teach us all about the “bigger picture”, one that includes an expanded version of ourselves.

DOTS highly encourages you to take a short break from your busy day and breath-in this video presentation from beginning to end—It’s very important that you hang in there past the 50-second mark before forming an opinion. This concept is simple, yet ingenious.

QUICK CLICK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA

“From now on we live in a world where man has walked on the Moon. It’s not a miracle; we just decided to go.” Tom Hanks

[According to Moon Tracks Astrology Calendars, the next Full Moon will be apparent in North America on July15, 2011 at 6:39 a.m. For more info on past, present and future moon cycles, QUICK CLICK: http://www.moontracks.com/fullmoonnames.html]

****

This full moon reminds us to prepare for our goal. What intention have you cast to the Universe? Whether it is a definitive plan or just a general desire, it is time to begin developing the habits and behaviors for its manifestation.

Full moons are considered periods of endings. Focus on casting off the behaviors that don’t serve your intention. You are at point A and you want to reach point B. Point B is a different place. Point B requires a different mindset. A new way of being.

What habits do you currently have that will need to change so you can reach point B? Remember to eliminate any negative emotions. No judgments. There may be nothing wrong with point A. You simply want to be in a different place.

“May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night and a smooth road all the way to your door.” An Irish Blessing

Moving from point A to point B might be like moving from Maine to Texas. Maine is a wonderful state but the decision is to move to Texas. What changes in lifestyle would have to be made? What preparations would you initiate to make the transition?

Begin making this transition. This full moon is allowing for gradual shifts in behavior as you transition to a new way of being. Effective change occurs when the soul believes. Select a behavior shift and focus on it daily.

“Tell me what you feel in your room when the full moon is shining in upon you and your lamp is dying out, and I will tell you how old you are, and I shall know if you are happy.” Henri Frederic Amiel

Visualize your new behavior. Close your eyes. Picture yourself in this behavior. Hear the comments people make about this new positive change you have chosen. Feel how good this new choice feels. You can feel it in your stomach, the solar plexus, the excitement, and energy.

Breathe in the your new you. Remember a time when you were proud of yourself and feel that feeling. Breathe that experience. See life from that perspective. This Full Moon warrants a new way of being to achieve your goal. See it, feel it, Live it.

“A full moon, a quiet night. That is so special.” Paul Petersen

***********

Tonja Edgecomb is a psychic intuitive and healing practitioner. She graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in education. Through a program of self-directed study and independent research she has studied metaphysical science and comparative religion. She became a certified hypnotherapist at the New England School of Clinical Hypnotherapy. She is a member of The American Association of Holistic Health and The National Guild of Hypnotists.

Tonja brings 24 year of teaching experience and curriculum development to her practice. She leads workshops, seminars and classes for people of all ages. She is a holistic life coach and spiritual teacher. She produces a weekly inspirational podcast with an international audience. She strives to meet the unique needs of each client while working with them to achieve their individual goals for more satisfying lives.

Tonja is an ordained minister, wife, mother and grandmother. She is an avid reader and gardener.

http://tonjaedgecomb.com/
http://tonjaedgecombhypnosis.com
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/im-the-inspirational-message/id283696169
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tonja-Edgecomb/179358762117944

OUR CONTINUING POPULAR SERIES “ASK ALAN” RESPONDS TO THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

Dear Alan, Over ten years ago, I took my life. I was greeted by 2 Guides, taken to many places and delivered to the most incredibly beautiful place I have ever been. While there, God spoke. I was told I could not stay because it was not my time and He had special plans for me. Since then, I have feel like a “Lady in Waiting.” I strive to do what is right, but feel confused. How do I tune-in to the path I have been chosen for? Thank you for the love and guidance—–Shelly

LISTEN to Alan’s Response to Shelly’s Question (accompanied by beautiful IMAGES) via a QUICK CLICK: http://youtu.be/4apkE8cKOSI

***************************

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION TO SUBMIT TO Dance of the Spirit’s “ASK ALAN” audio column? Find out “how, what, when, where” with a QUICK CLICK: http://danceofthespirit.com/notables/free-micro-readings-by-an-amazing-psychic-intuitive/

********************************

DOTS executive editor Sandra Cline knows ALAN KINNER personally. This she knows to be true: Alan is truly a wise soul with High Intention—his goal is to raise the vibration of the planet—thus helping as many people as possible. He often does this with no small amount of humor—EXHIBIT A: Alan’s wonderful, hand-painted HUMOR ROCKS! Alan has a god-given Gift—one that has allowed him to connect with the “other” world since childhood. This curiosity ultimately led him upon an unusual path—he has studied the art of metaphysics throughout his life and has professionally practiced as a psychic-intuitive for over 25 years.

By way of witty, insightful, and creative readings, Alan has brought spiritual insight to clients located across the world. BTW, he was also a featured channeler for “Sedona Magazine” !!!

Alan enjoys creating a sacred space which nurtures and honors each person’s Soul Journey—ensuring an opportunity for growth and empowerment. DOTS is honored to have Alan be a part of our team and we are blessed by his generous offer to provide micro-readings for DOTS readers.

If you are interested in having Alan channel a micro -reading for you, try to choose a question that relates to your Soul Purpose, Life Mission, and Overall Spiritual Journey. Each DOTS micro-reading will be professionally individualized to help you open your awareness—-and remind you of who you really are.

[PLEASE NOTE: There are no guarantees that your question will be answered. Alan will choose questions that have the greatest potential for relevance (and interest) to the lives of many other DOTS readers.]

Submit your question via e-mail at: info@autumnleavespublishing.com (The SUBJECT LINE should read: ASK ALAN)

For mote detailed information about Alan Kinner—his Services (including phone readings!), his Humor Rocks, and more—please visit his awesome website: http://www.alankinner.com/

*********

DOTS DISCLAIMER : DanceoftheSpirit.com General Recommendations (including but not limited to Lifestyle/Relationship Advice and All Health or Diet Guidelines or “Tips”) are not intended to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, physical or mental. The information included as part of this online website is also not intended as a substitute for regular medical or psychiatric care, prescribed medication, or psychological treatment/therapy. Consult your personal physician regarding specific physical or psychological symptoms or other medical concerns.

“I am of the firmest belief that if you close your eyes and hum a sweet song, you can turn the ‘bullets’ of negativity into soaring birds, flying free.” Nicole Millar

*********

No matter who you are or where you’ve been–no matter where you live or where you come from, I am absolutely certain that you have found yourself feeling down and out at least a time or two. It happens to the happiest of us!

Some days, we simply wake up on the “wrong side of the bed”; at other times, we feel a bit more cranky than usual.

In addition, our own personal energies naturally adapt to the energies of those around us. Whenever we go out with good and positive friends, our spirits feel joyfully high and soar freely because the energies of our friends are alive and vibrant, resonating with our own.

Likewise, if we go to work only to find that a co-worker is quieter than usual and seems out-of-sorts or sad, then our own energies adapt to those of our co-worker. While we might (most days) be chatty or chipper with that person, we suddenly feel ourselves becoming more reserved and silent in order to maintain the balance of energies between ourselves and that friend. As uncomfortable as it may feel to adapt to that negative energy, an imbalance of energies feels far too unnatural—we adapt to avoid tension and conflict.

We have all walked into the office smiling, only to wipe the grin from our faces as we realize that our good mood is not so welcome amidst the crowd of coffee-needers, complainers, and bad-day-havers.

But, there are also times in our lives when the negative energy affecting our personal space doesn’t feel quite so temporary. When the people around us (our family or friends, or anyone we live with or often interact with) are consistently feeling “low” or “blue”, mad or sad, it can be hard to keep our own heads above the watermark called “joyful”.

The energies that surround us can slowly take over the energies that fill us. And before you know it, our sunny disposition begins to feel dark, gloomy, and pessimistic. The worst part of the emotional cycle is when you realize that your mood has begun to change your personality, and you sink even further into feeling miserable—down into the abyss of depression.

It’s no surprise to most of us that you can often solve your energy-vampire problems by simply steering clear of Negative-Nancies. But life doesn’t always give us that choice. We might find ourselves living in a home full of tension—or perhaps we work in an environment plays host to bitterness and stress.

We might be living with depressed roommates, or find that our closest friends regularly fall into funks of pessimism and aggravation. Whatever the case, the world does not always give us the opportunity to leave a negative environment.

Ultimately, the choice is ours: 1) we can give-in to the negativity or 2) consciously find survival mechanisms to navigate the shadowlands.

From personal experience (often years at a time of it), I know how difficult it can be to survive repeated nights of falling asleep to the unsettling vibrations of negative energy only to awaken to the disconcerting sounds of negative energy—renewed and re-kindled.

I also know how hard it is to maintain a smile on your face in the interim. It is natural to find our moods getting darker and darker as our time living in these kinds of environments continues—day in, day out.

More often than not, we don’t even realize how we are being affected—that is, until we are already engulfed by the bleakness emanating from others. As a result, we feel frustrated by our own lack of control.

This realization is followed by the dark questions of self-doubt: How can anyone (ME, for instance) possibly remain happy when everyone around me is not? Will this situation get better even if the others involved show no signs of change or express the will or desire to change? What is my duty to myself here? I know that a joyful life awaits me—how do I make my way to it?

As spiritual beings having a HUMAN experience, we often become products of our environment—out of sheer frustration and exhaustion, there are times when it feels as though there is nothing left to do but sulk and/or lash-out at those we perceive are responsible for our crankiness. (At least, that’s what we tend to tell ourselves.)

In his book “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” (a DOTS 5-star recommendation), Eckhart Tolle writes beautifully about what he calls “the pain body”—patterns of behavior that each of us carries within ourselves.

As someone who has survived various environments which have been, and perhaps still are, extremely high in negative energy, I can tell you with absolute certainty that we are NOT at the mercy of our environment—at least not as much as we would have ourselves think.

Staying (or becoming) positive in such dark places is a constant battle, to be sure; but it is NOT an un-winnable one. It can be a long road filled with trial, error, and tribulation but each of us can find/create our own brand of “soul-lifting”—coping strategies that work for our own particular situation.

For me, it’s the energy radiated by bright and happy music. No matter where I am, I can put on my headphones, play a happy song, and transport myself to a bright and peaceful place.

For others, it could be something just as simple—such as consciously telling yourself to “stop for a second and take a deep breath” before entering a particularly stressful room.

For another, peace and tranquility may be found by reading a few pages of an inspiring book, or by keeping a personal diary to reflect on your thoughts, including your own changes in mood as they respond to your surroundings. (Regarding personal journals: try ending each entry with a notation about something your are grateful for—a spark of magic can be found in such moments and affirmations.)

Whenever you find yourself needing an energetic hug, take a few moments to call a good friend—one that you know will support you and raise you up.

One of my personal favorite strategies: enjoying a quick walk outside. Nothing clears the mind better than fresh air, a watercolor sunset, the brush of a fragrant breeze across your cheek, the aroma of blooming flowers, or the sound of children happily playing.

Try thinking of your challenging efforts to raise your overall vibration (the only energetic vibration you can truly influence) this way: by breaking through the “shadowlands” with seeds of light and a joyful spirit, by creating little rainbow arcs using your own, well-earned positive energy, you are helping everyone else around you—-this is a natural by-product of energetic resonance. It occurs whenever you allow your special “sunshine-song” to be heard by others—it echoes out into the world and radiates with the sacred, Universal Hum, the OM of the great Spirit that unites us all.

This world and beyond–ALL THAT IS—is subsequently raised up and brightened a notch or two or three.

The same cosmic law applies when you’re getting ready to do something scary—-such as giving a speech in front of a huge audience or skydiving for the first time. The adrenaline (and fear) can either paralyze you or propel you into GREATNESS. Fight or Flight—-it’s all up to you!

So, if and when you find yourself “stuck” in a place of sadness, frustration, and negativity, take a moment to pause and think before you forfeit your shining, positive spirit to the negative energies ebbing away at your patience and strength.

If you are feeling trapped between the worlds that exist within you and without you, dare to take that first step towards acknowledging and embracing the light that already exists inside of you.

As that old gospel goes: “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.” Yeah, my friend let it shine brightly, vanquishing the dimming shadow-world. The darkness and the light cannot co-exist if you will it so. It only takes a tiny flame (or a single smile) to brighten up a room—even if you are the only one who notices.

If the negative energy has already made its way into your heart, take a moment to step outside (literally if necessary) and re-evaluate your choices. Happiness can exist in the darkest of places—even if it has been forgotten.

Only YOU hold the power to remember JOY. And only you can turn the bullets buzzing by your head (in the form of negative darts) into soaring birds, flying free.

The good news: YOU GET TO CHOOSE the colors that you paint your world. Find your “safe place”—a quiet space where you can center and ground yourself, then go back out into the world and paint the canvas of your life, one broad stroke at a time.

Marilyn Mackenzie summed it up beautifully when she wrote: “Life is like an artist’s canvas, blank at the beginning of each new day. As we awake, our canvas life awaits us, blank until we decide which colors to splash upon it. Today, our painting can be asymmetrical. Tomorrow, our canvas may end the day as a portrait, with lines of experience etched on the brow. Our life’s canvas can be our own design, or we can allow others to add their touches, making our life a community project. The key to life is in knowing which others to allow to add their finishing touches to our life’s canvas. Will we allow only those who look at life darkly to add their designs? Or will we seek out light-hearted and loving souls to add highlights?”

Bright Blessings,

Nicole

“Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!“
(a quote by Lakota chief, Sitting Bull)

*****

I have always loved the beauty and the energy of spring; the beauty of new things born and the energy of old things blooming renewed.

I am awakened every morning by the birds chirping outside of my window. And all day,
I’m surrounded by the brilliant greens of newly-grown grass, the brightness of the sky, the warmth of the sun, the smell of fresh flowers, and the colors of the sunset that make way for a night of sparkling stars.

I was so moved by Spring’s arrival this year that I decided to do some investigation. I was quite curious to see what myths or stories might surround this transformation of the Earth and of the life it harbors in all of its glory.

In my online travels, I came across a particular myth that immediately caught my attention. It is a story filled with everything that Spring holds for us, one that celebrates the seasonal cycles that bring us this rebirth each year.

The myth of Persephone, Greek Goddess of the underworld, tells the story of how the seasons came to be. Persephone was the radiant daughter of Zeus and Demeter. She loved the sun in the clear blue sky and the flowers that covered the bright green grass.

But one day, as Persephone was laughing amongst the beauty that surrounded her, the ground opened up and, before she had time to get away, Hades dragged her down to the underworld with him.

Demeter felt in her heart that something was wrong and looked high and low for her beloved daughter. In all of her despair, Demeter forgot her duties to the beauty of the Earth and slowly everything around her began to die—the flowers wilted, the grass turned brown, the air turned cold and the trees shed their leaves.

As time passed, Demeter uncovered Zeus’ plot to give Persephone to Hades— in order to appease the god of the Underworld. As a result, Demeter’s anger swelled—she flew to Zeus’ home and demanded that the “Father of Gods” bring their daughter back.

As Demeter’s rage grew, Zeus grew weary of all that Demeter’s anger had done to the Earth; ultimately, Zeus agreed to send his messenger (Hermes) to retrieve their daughter.

When Hermes arrived in the underworld, he was astonished to discover that Persephone had grown accustomed to her position as the wife of Hades—she like being the Queen of the Underworld. Persephone enjoyed welcoming departed souls to their new home.

Upon hearing of her mother’s distress, Persephone felt torn between her new home and the sunlight above. Hades allowed Persephone to visit her mother so that his wife would not be sad. But before she left, he gave her a gift—”the fruit of life”, a delicacy that he knew his wife would consume.

When Persephone returned to her mother, Demeter rejoiced! Demeter’s happiness brought the flowers and the grass back to life. Demeter wished for Persephone to stay with her forever, but because their daughter had been profoundly changed by her time spent living in the Underworld (and the fruit of Hades), Zeus could not allow Persephone to have a permanent home with them.

However, Zeus loved his daughter and couldn’t bring himself to banish her to the underworld for all time. And, because he feared that Demeter’s rage would be uncontrollable if he did not allow Persephone to occasionally return, he allowed Persephone to visit for a while each year.

So it is—seasonally, when Persephone returns to her mother, the flowers bloom and there is new, green life once again. Then, when fall comes, and Demeter knows that Persephone must soon return to the underworld, Demeter grows sad once more and the world changes to Autumn.

Finally, when Persephone leaves to return to Hades, despair once again returns to Demeter and the world is dulled gray with Winter—that is, until Persephone comes home.

As women (or as a man attuned to Gaia), we are all aspects of Persephone—Goddesses of a kind— our own versions of Spring. When the last frost thaws from the grass and we are met by the sun’s rays after months of shaded light and gloomy skies, our own souls rejoice—we come alive with the prospect of blooming anew—our spirits warmed by the ripening air.

We can more easily release whatever sadness we held within, melancholy hidden by Winter—comforted by blue skies and the glowing rays of sunlight. We are reinforced and inspired by the love we feel within our hearts when we hear the morning call of songbirds.

Chronic aches and chills leaving our tired bones as we stray from our everyday duties to walk in the sunset, pick a flower for the dinner table, or stroll down a charming street strewn with colorful blooms.

No matter what is happening in your life, if there was ever a perfect time to start anew, that time is NOW.

If, as you read this treatise to Spring, you still feel the touch of winter on your face, do not despair as Demeter might.

Embrace the truth that Spring is here or, depending on your global location, soon will be. Remember: though images (memories) of dim skies may obscure and dull your mind, you can choose, WITHIN ANY MOMENT OF NOW, to awaken and look outside your window. You can CHOOSE a brighter reality.

Spring’s skies are clear and bright. The air is fresh, imbued with the mesmerizing scent of blossoming Jasmine. The branches of nearby trees are strong enough for you to climb—like you, their roots grow deep.

If you have not already done so, my dear friend, I dare you to leave all gray memories of Winter behind as you spread your wings toward the beauty of Spring—then SOAR to a Higher Vibration.

Above all, embrace the hope and love and magic that comes with this fertile season. Allow yourself to be refreshed by the sweetness of rose petals and the flutter of feathers. Allow yourself to REJOICE in the promise of SPRING!

“Autumn arrives in early morning, but Spring at the close of a winter day.”
(a quote by Elizabeth Bowen)

Bright Blessings,
Nicole

*************

[NICOLE MILLAR is a contributing writer for Dance of the Spirit. Nicole obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Creative writing from the University of Central Florida in 2010. She worked as the production manager and as a fiction editor for the university's Cypress Dome Literary Journal and has taken a year off to pursue various internships and writing opportunities before returning to school for her Master's Degree. Nicole believes that the most important thing to remember, and the easiest thing to forget, is that we must always live for our own dreams and never let the disbelief of others overpower the magic that we are capable of.]

“If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe then man would only have four years of life left. No more bees, no more pollination, no more plants, no more animals, no more man.”
Albert Einstein

*****

We’re honored to bring you another “Environmental Machinima” film by Dance of the Spirit contributor Celestial Elf.

This amazing and inspiring video is based on Willi Paul’s modern myth “The Bee Cave Spirits.” (More information about this modern myth can be found at: http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1638 )

Dear Reader, you have a choice: You can watch this incredible piece of work (a film entitled “The Bee Myth”) at You Tube with a QUICK CLICK: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsVL22dIdKw) and then read the all-important, crucial information that appears below or you can read the content/context and then watch the film or BOTH :^)

What follows is a synopsis that was sent to us by Celestial Elf, creator of “The Bee Myth” film. For more on the work/writings of Celestial Elf, go to: (http://celestialelfdanceoflife.blogspot.com/) :

Set in a post- Dystopian society of a not-too-distant future, this film introduces the cause of bees and their integral value to the eco-sphere—the biosphere that we call our Mother Earth.

Bees in Traditional Culture
Throughout history in many world cultures, a mystical relationship to honeybees can be found.
In the Ancient world the Great Mother was known as the “Queen Bee” and her priestesses were called Melissae.

They served the Bee Goddesses and functioned as Oracles carrying the golden wisdom of the Goddess to her people.

The honeycomb was even considered (by the Greek Pythagoreans) to be a symbol of the Goddess’ qualities of love and harmony because of its hexagonal shape—composed of two triangles, one pointing upwards (representing Fire) and the other downwards (symbolizing Water)—thus creating the perfect union between the opposites.

The Druids of Northern Europe reverenced the bees for their ability to pollinate flowers and crops, which was regarded as a sacred charge because honey was seen as a precious gift from the Mother Goddess herself.

Many Native American Indian tribes also used honey (and other bee by-products)—-these included the early Maya and Aztec Indians who kept bees and collected honey from the wild bees.

However, the bee population of North America (and Europe) is now in serious decline. This fact threatens to culminate in societal disaster—a gradual (and ultimate disappearance) of food crops as they are dependent upon the bees to pollinate them.

The increase of commercial agriculture techniques (with its expansive use of pesticides) and the subsequent destruction of wild plants and flowers (upon which the bees forage) contributed to this problem.

Bees are known as a crucial “indicator”—a kind of barometer, reflecting cross-species health across “Mother Earth”.

Interestingly, bees are also an allegory for mankind’s psychological and spiritual well-being.

***

Introducing Permaculture
Permaculture (based on ecological and biological principles) is a holistic approach to designing human settlements and agricultural systems—modeled on the relationships found in natural ecologies, harmoniously integrating the land with all of its inhabitants.

It is understood that earlier peoples farmed in cooperation with the Earth and her seasonal cycles. For example: the Druids in the North (and other social leaders) did much to manage and advise their communities on how (and when) to sow and tend crops and animals.

Following “modern” industrialization, these techniques were abandoned in favor of faster “turn-around-of-product” market cycles.

Today, during our own time on 3-d Earth, Bill Mollison (someone who could be called the instigator of a “Quiet Revolution”) launched his book entitled “Permaculture One: A Perennial Agriculture for Human Settlements”, a work that was first published in 1981. What resulted was an international resurgence of land-use structured on cooperation with nature. ( For more info on this aspect of the issue, see:
http://www.scottlondon.com/interviews/mollison.html )

Within this Permaculture system, the ecological processes of plants and animals—their nutrient cycles, climatic factors and related weather cycles are all included. Ultimately, work is minimized, “wastes” become resources, productivity & yields increase, and bionome environments are restored.

The fundamental “core values” of Permaculture are often summarized as:
1. EarthCare—-recognizing that the Earth is the source of all life (is possibly itself a living entity — (see the “Gaia Theory”, one place to start: http://www.ecolo.org/lovelock/)—and that we are a part of Earth, not apart from it.

2. FairShare—in which animals are treated as co-habitators and co-workers of the Earth—eating foods normally unpalatable to people such as pests i.e. slugs and termites—and supplying valuable, mineral-rich fertilizer through their droppings.

3. Natural Energy Use: e.g. employing a cave for preservation due to its ideally dry, dark and warm conditions—using the integration of cooperative crops rather than weeding—as the growth of field flowers amongst corn allows the bees to better pollinate. In addition, employing some ‘weeds’ to keep others at bay due to the nature of their chemical interaction with the soil—thus avoiding pesticides and chemicals (poisons that undermine the Earth’s ability to host its cycles of growth). This is in stark contrast to the modern-day accepted practice of Industrial Agriculture— a system which intensively exploits the soil, plants and animals.

For more information on Permaculture, please follow these links: ( http://www.permaculture.org.uk/ ) AND/OR ( http://www.permacultureusa.org/ )

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Now, sit back and enjoy the enlightened wisdom of “The Bee Myth”. GO TO:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsVL22dIdKw

[Original soundtrack created with use of
Copyright Free Music courtesy of
Kevin MacLeod of Incompetech.com
( http://incompetech.com/m/c/royalty-free/ )
licensed under Creative Commons
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
BlackBird Orion300XB,
Additional Music and Audio effects mixed from samples via freesound.org/

Written and Adapted for machinima by Willi Paul and Celestial Elf. Filmed on SecondLife via Snowglobe 1.4.2. Made using Frapps, Serif MoviePlus X3 on Windows XP. Conceived,

[Directed and Produced by Celestial Elf 2011]

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BLESSED BEE !!

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To Learn More About Celestial Elf’s Musings,

visit his blog “THE DANCE OF LIFE” at: http://celestialelfdanceoflife.blogspot.com/

You can also read an interview with Celestial Elf via a QUICK CLICK:
http://www.planetshifter.com/node/1813

“The creative is the place where no one else has ever been. You have to leave the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of your intuition. What you’ll discover will be wonderful. What you’ll discover is yourself.” Alan Alda

The NOTABLE creation that Dance of the Spirit spotlights today is a brilliant video project—an idea based on palindromes, submitted as a contest entry by a 25-year-old young man named Jonathon, a film student attending Columbia College in Chicago.

The contest was titled “u @ 50″ and was sponsored by the AARP. This particular video won second place. After it was shown, everyone in the room was awestruck; then, the audience broke into spontaneous applause.

As you know, a palindrome reads the same backward and forward. The word “palindrome” is derived from the Greek “palíndromos”—meaning “running back again”. Some simple examples are: RACECAR, DEED, LEVEL, and PIP.

A palindrome can also be a phrase that reads the same in both directions. As you are about to see, if you group the lines (instead of individual letters) in a clever way, the story reveals itself to have the opposite meaning—from bottom to top.

It is a delight to discover that this one is extremely creative and enlightened.

Even though this “You Tube” video runs for only 1 minute and 44 seconds, the result is nothing short of BRILLIANT. Listen intently as you follow along while reading the words.

In my opinion, this young person is what is known as a “crystal soul”, an old soul here to teach us all about the bigger picture, one that includes an expanded version of ourselves.

I encourage you to take a short break and watch this video presentation from beginning to end—it’s important that you hang in there past the 50-second mark before forming an opinion. This concept is simple, yet ingenious.

QUICK CLICK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA

“It is never easy to keep reaching for dreams. Strength and courage can sometimes be lonely friends. But those who reach, walk in stardust.” Anonymous

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We are truly honored to bring you today’s publication—the first edition of our new audio column that we call “Ask Alan”!

Alan Kinner is a gifted psychic-intuitive and channeler. No matter the question, you will be thrilled to learn that each and every “Ask Alan” answer embodies Cosmic Truth that every single one of us (without exception) can apply to our own lives.

Though Alan’s mystical wisdom comes to us “from the stars”, the “stardust” that we are left with allows us to shine brighter—even as we remain grounded and joyous within our 3-d Earth reality.

Within this Moment of Now, we invite you to LISTEN to “Ask Alan”—-and ENJOY.
(Each teaching is about
3 to 5 minutes long.)

So, SPRINKLE yourself with StarDust and Shine-On, dear reader, Shine On! :^)

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Evelyn C’s question—e-mailed to Dance of the Spirit on Monday Feb. 21st, 2011:

“We were each other’s first love in 1962. We’ve fallen in love again. Will we end up (end our lives) together?”

NOTE: Alan’s answer to Evelyn applies to anyone who has ever loved another:

QUICK CLICK . . . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ROTaFaVqm9E

Lili J’s question—e-mailed to Dance of the Spirit on Monday Feb. 21st, 2011:

“Greetings Alan: Good to have you come and help us at this stage of our life. Alan, it is my birthday today. And, I know you can’t hurry love. (lollllllll.) Or ascension. And that patience is a virtue…but why is it taking me so long to remember my true self and manifest my highest good?
Sincerely with love for all,
Lili”

NOTE: Alan’s answer to Lili applies to anyone who has ever asked the question WHO AM I? WHY AM I HERE? WHAT IS THIS EARTHLY EXPERIENCE ALL ABOUT?!?

Listen Now via a QUICK LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZiMngA445M

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DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION TO SUBMIT TO Dance of the Spirit’s “ASK ALAN” audio column?
To Find out how, what, when, where, etc., QUICK CLICK:
http://danceofthespirit.com/notables/free-micro-readings-by-an-amazing-psychic-intuitive/

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For more details about Alan Kinner, including his contact info for extended readings (and his original & fantastic humor rocks—the perfect gift! :^) please
QUICK CLICK:
http://www.alankinner.com/

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DOTS DISCLAIMER : DanceoftheSpirit.com General Recommendations (including but not limited to Lifestyle/Relationship Advice and All Health or Diet Guidelines or “Tips”) are not intended to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, physical or mental. The information included as part of this online website is also not intended as a substitute for regular medical or psychiatric care, prescribed medication, or psychological treatment/therapy. Consult your personal physician regarding specific physical or psychological symptoms or other medical concerns.