It is in the stillness that we transcend the everyday. We learn more about ourselves, receive insights that help us on our journey. We also can come to a place of appreciation about who we are and what we are meant to do in this life.

This past year has brought me to a place of sheer joy and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds me every day! I am grateful for every moment of every day- for those who have touched my life, and for those whose lives I may have touched. We are all connected, and are part of the bigger cosmic picture- and our goal is to continue to awaken humanity. To share our individual gifts and unique talents serve the whole- and sometimes we can't see the "forest for the trees."

Looking back at where I was a little more than a year ago- I now sit here in awe. Yes, back then, I was tapped into the fear of the economic collapse, fear of losing my business, I had lost all my mojo for creating- and was pretty much unsure of what I would do. Fast forward to a year later, and I am astounded at my own personal growth. Let me share-at some point, through my fear, I realized that I still wanted to be in this business- and kept feeling love within my heart. It is in the moment that I decided to love my fears, bless them, but not let them defeat me, that I felt a shift. This shift has brought a renewed sense of spirit and purpose to my life and I am forever grateful. I now awaken each day with a very grateful heart and tell myself over and over how blessed I truly am. My heart is filled with love and it transcends all business matters and details. Part of my purpose and work in the world at this time, is to provide a peaceful haven where souls can come to relax and to re-connect with their inner joy. My gifts lie in the ability to choose the right stones and keep them until the next owner comes along. I am truly blessed that I kept trusting in my path- and business has changed. But, I don't do this work in the old way of being a hard driven, succeed at all costs, type of person. My new business model is operating from a pure heart- one that is aware, community minded and constantly seeking to grow. Yes, and although I'm aware of my divinity, I'm also connected to my human-ness... and part of the bigger picture.

So, let's focus this month on the pure heart- that lies within each and every one of us! Let's open the petals of the flower within and offer up the parts of us that no longer serve us- let's pay attention to details that we may have glossed over, and focus instead on the real work. Narrow your focus, notice what your distractions are, see and feel what is truly important to you and your work, and let go of the rest. Same for relationships- while being in relationship can help us to learn more about ourselves- there can come a time when the union no longer serves. While not every interaction can be magnificent, they can serve to teach us what we can tolerate and what is not nurturing to us. The roles of being caregiver, and enabler or putting others needs first, is over. At the same time, it is important to understand that sometimes coming through for another helps the soul growth. Being grateful for those who have come through for you in turbulent times speaks volumes to the level of connection- and it is important to share our gifts and abilities with those around us.

Let's get down to the deep, pure heart within and open to the joy that is all around us. Letting go of the past, forgiving ourselves and others for perceived mistakes, opening to the new is what this month is all about! Feel the golden energy in your pure heart- and live IN JOY!!

Make time for stillness in your everyday life- allow yourself to hear the gifts of music in your soul. Be mindful and aware- and remember to share!

With love, Cathy

SEPTEMBER "Gem of Wisdom"

"Pay it forward"- give something unexpected and watch what happens! Try this sometime: When you leave the house in the morning- put a crystal in your pocket or purse. As your day unfolds- let yourself be guided to the right situation and time. You will know the right person that needs the energy from that stone. Don't "think" about it too much- the universe will guide you to the right person. It could be the person who tells you about their special needs child, or the harried cashier who seems tired, or the person in the doctors office. Trust that it will be the right person at the right time! Open your heart and share joy!