Thursday, May 31, 2012

Being You: Do you flow with the wind?

Do you come in like a gentle breeze and turn into a hurricane? Understanding the force of the wind is the way to get it working for you. Harnessing its power is vital. If you don’t you may be swept away with every gust. There are times when we just can’t seem to stay focused. So many shifts are happening that we aren’t sure what to do next. The secret is do get grounded and calm so that we can take advantage of the power of change.

That temperamental, wild, creature that just flew into the room, ten minutes late, is likely a child of Oya. It may seem like they are always caught in a whirlwind. Oyas can turn wild gales into refreshing breezes. They can create any kind of change you can imagine, and some you can’t.

Do you know somebody who can never sit still? They likely move from one project to the next, without finishing. Their temper is quick and violent but seldom lasts very long. They never back down from confrontation. They find it hard to keep people in their lives. You have just had an encounter with a child of Oya. Perhaps you are one yourself.

Many people over-emphasize the chaos that accompanies this energy.  In reality, it is about sudden change. It takes courage, and resolve, to switch directions, trusting the wind to carry you forward. The Oya uses confidence to create the changes they need and keep their feet on the ground. They can show us what we need to shift, and how to make it happen.

When you are invested in constant change it can be difficult to build anything. You need variety so that you can reach longer-term goals. As an Oya, you are powerful and opinionated. Harnessing that power enables you to help others change and grow. Once you learn to sit at the centre of the storm you can come into your power. Even at the most chaotic times our core sits quiet and undisturbed. Diving to this core is your gift if you work to evolve as an Oya.

I love the Oyas in my life because they keep me on my toes. Never resting for long, they push all of us to move and grow. They fly through your life quickly. It can be hard to connect. They will always leave seeds of change for you to plant and tend. They are the great initiators. They leave others to do the work of implementation. If you need some fresh ideas connect with an Oya. If you need to fearlessly face the winds of change an Oya can show you how to deal with a hurricane.

Have you ever experienced the power of one of these wild creatures as they shift? Were you carried away in their whirlwind? Do you think you might be a child of Oya?  I’d love to hear why, or why not.

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Being You: How's your character?

When you can sell sand in the desert it is even more important to act with good character. Your character is what determines your results.

That social, silver-tongued dynamo over there is probably a child of Sango. With all that fire and charisma they’re hard to miss. Sangos can convince anyone to give them exactly what they want. Their energy is really about developing good character. When their drive is applied to questionable ends the results are always disastrous.

Do you know somebody who is always on fire? They’re a real extrovert, with the gift of the gab. They seem impossibly confident. They could sell anything to anyone. You’ve probably spotted a Sango. Perhaps these qualities describe you.

Sangos are brilliant strategists with almost boundless passion. Their strategies need to be executed with good character in order for them to see long-lasting results. Children of Sango always present the best possible view of themselves and their achievements. It can  make some people uncomfortable. A little creative embellishment makes life more interesting for the Sango. When they couple their strategies with solid thinking, and good character, they can accomplish anything.

Developing good character can be a challenge when you can mold situations to suit you.  When you act with good character you create positive results for everyone. The alternative is to have your life fall into ruin once you have wandered too far off your path. One of the best ways to experience what’s possible for you is to volunteer. Get involved in strategic planning for your favourite charity. Maybe even lead the board. Seeing how much difference you can make will help you realize just what you’re capable of.

I love the Sangos in my life for their fire and passion. They really get how people work. They can find efficient ways to get things done. They can show the rest of us how to put our best foot forward, so that we can accomplish our dreams. If you’re feeling stuck, connect with your passion. It will generate the energy you need to get moving.  Focus on all the reasons the world needs you. Develop the strategies to make your life a success.

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Monday, May 14, 2012

Being You: Do you nurture with purpose?

If you nurture without intention you may end up being a doormat. Focus your strength on growth and independence. Nurturing is a lot like good parenting. It is important to offer support and encouragement, but, growth and development are always your most important goals. Most of us have experienced what happens when children are coddled. Mis-use of nurturing energy teaches irresponsibility and stunts growth. It most often goes without appreciation.

That soft, mesmerizing, creature who seems to float through the room is likely a child of Yemonja/Olokun. On the outside they may seem weak. Like the ocean, they have surprising depth, and shocking ferocity. When their support is coupled with lessons, growth can’t be far behind.

Do you know somebody who treasures their home? They probably seem as concerned about other people’s children as their own. They are gentle by nature but fiercely protective. Their tempers are slow to rise, but, like a tidal wave, leave nothing standing. You are experiencing a child of Yemonja/Olokun. Perhaps you are one yourself.

Many people over-emphasize the soft, nurturing, nature of this energy.  The real point of this energy is growth. Through the nurturing and lessons they bring Yemonja/Olokuns foster development and independence in those they touch. They really shine when it’s time to teach life’s hard lessons. They are stern but fair.  They expect appreciation and nurturing in return.

When you are a gentle and caring soul, it can be hard to be strict when it’s needed. Without balance you may give too much. The results can be exhausting. If you apply your support, along with some solid advice, the people around you will learn and grow. If you reach down to the powerful pool of Olokun energy, you can find balance and take your place in the world.

I love the Yemonja/Olokuns in my life for the soft approach they bring to living. They understand the importance of being gentle as well as being strong. They powerfully defend those they love. They can show us how to be caring and tough at the same time. They know how to accept and encourage independence in others. If you need a supportive push this is the energy to do it. If you need help figuring out how to deal with an unruly teen, find the nearest Yemonja/Olokun.

Have you ever experienced the fury of one of these gentle souls when their anger has been triggered? Did it shock you? Do you think you might be a child of Yemonja/Olokun?  I’d love to hear why, or why not.

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