Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Being You: Are you open to the possibilities?

Are you always exploring what life has to offer? The world is full of potential. Making choices is the only way to benefit from it. If you just celebrate the possibilities you may never accomplish what you’re here to do. It’s hard to stay focused when there’s always so much more to explore. The best way to approach your never-ending curiosity is to slow down and think about the impact you want to have.

That trickster who is always ready with another joke is probably a child of Esu. Esus can seem immature, and unfocused. They are really about exploring possibilities. Their intense curiosity and quick minds allow them to learn just about anything. They can open you up to potential that you didn’t know you have.

Do you know someone who moves through the world with child-like enthusiasm. They are always looking for new things to learn and explore. They seem to embody wisdom and innocence at the same time. They are always ready to hit you with a practical joke. You’ve just been touched by a child of Esu. Perhaps you are one yourself.

Many people over-focus on the child-like nature of this energy. It is really about limitless curiosity and potential. It can be difficult to stay focused when you see possibility all around you. Esus can use their powerful curiosity to dive into a subject with zeal. They can show us the potential in a situation even when we feel hopeless.

The world has so much to offer. It can be difficult to stay still when you might miss something interesting. As an Esu your powerful curiosity and boundless energy can be hard to contain. If you can engage for long enough you have what it takes to learn anything. You can bring the excitement of newness into dull situations. You can show us all the possibilities that we are missing.

I love the Esus in my life because they inspire me to see what can be. They are always on the move. They are enthusiastic about taking you on a journey with them. It can be hard to get their attention, but, once you have it,  they can explore you with intimidating intensity. They can inspire laughter and hope. If you feel stuck an Esu can help you find a way out of any situation. If you have reached the end of your rope a child of Esu can show you the potential solutions to any problem.

Have you ever seen an Esu chasing delightedly after something? Did you try to catch up and follow them on their quest? Perhaps you think that you’re a child of Esu. I’m interested in knowing why, or why not.

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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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Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Being You: Do you have clarity?

In order to know what’s really going on we all need clarity. Being clear depends on being calm and keeping a cool head.

The first thing most of us notice about an Obatala is their mind. The Obatala energy is really about finding, and keeping, clarity. I’m an Obatala. As I wrote this I had to think about what Obatala people contribute to the world. What connecting with us, and our Guardian, can bring into your life.

Do you know somebody who is in their head all the time? They’re bit introverted with a dry sense of humour. They are easily annoyed but always searching for peace. If these qualities sound familiar you’ve likely found an Obatala. Perhaps you’re one yourself.

The Obatala is always searching for the peace that results in clear thinking. They can’t just escape into their head. During a fight a woman who needs space to sort out her feelings is a typical Obatala. Her partner may feel abandoned, but, she needs to think about her feelings before she can deal with them. All that thinking can get you running in circles. Real understanding requires a balance between the emotions, and the mind. When our hearts and intellects are in sync we have sound judgment.

All this focus on the mind makes it harder to care for the body. We must consider our physical well-being as we experience life. In order to live productive lives we need to be strong. Our physical health is critical if we are to to achieve our destinies. Some Obatalas totally ignore the needs of their bodies. Make no mistake, this will catch up with anyone, eventually. Exercise time can be a great way for an Obatala to get the alone time they need. A great way to sort through a difficult situation is a long, quiet walk.

I love the Obatalas in my life for the perspective they provide. They are keen observers. They can figure out where conflicts are coming from. They can also stay calm when emotions are running high. Next time you need some advice, or clarity, spend some time with an Obatala. If you’re looking to bring some balance into your life remember that peace and calm are your gateway to clarity. Practicing long, deep, breathing is one of the best ways to clear your head.

Connect with Brian

Monday, April 2, 2012

Spring cleaning: What can you let go of?

It’s Spring. The reason you’re holding on to things may be the emotional baggage attached to them. Out with the old.

As you switch wardrobes and lifestyle it’s a great time to look at your old stuff. Ask yourself why you’ve held on to it for so long. Look at all those things that have sentimental value. Consider the sentiment attached. If you have a negative charge associated with anything, explore the emotion. Are you are keeping things to remind you that you still have some work to do?

While cleaning out a drawer full of things I never use I came across a  couple of items that had been given to me. One of them reminded me of an old friend. We’ve lost touch, but, I hope he is having a wonderful life.

The next item was more complicated. It was a gift that was made for me by someone who broke my heart. When I found it I got a lump in my throat. The relationship had been over for many years but I had never fully let go.

I held it and connected to everything that it represented to me. I declared my intention to move through my pain. Then I threw it into a public bin. It was difficult. I felt like I was letting go of all the good memories from an important time in my life.  Doing it started a challenging process of remembering, then healing, then completion. What are you hanging on to that holds you in your old emotional patterns? Perhaps it is time to let it go.

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Monday, March 19, 2012

Being You: Are you keeping your heart open?

In this post I explore the Ogun’s big heart. Many of us see the hardworking, honest and dedicated Ogun and don’t even notice one of the most important traits, the Ogun heart.

If you pride yourself on how hard-working you are,  you have likely chosen Ogun as your Guardian. Honesty is extremely important to you. Your ability to focus inspires those of us who get pulled off track. Your sensitivity is something that you may be reluctant to share.

Oguns can show us how to connect with others. The reason for this is their big, open, hearts. People feel safe and welcomed because Oguns really care about them. They connect with an openness and honesty that sets even the most introverted person at ease.

In our world of shut down hearts it can be hard to find a safe place for an Ogun to be themselves. Some of my Ogun clients want me to help them be less emotional and caring. I prefer to help them embrace themselves. Boundaries can let them express their grounded innocence. Their embracing personalities are a valuable part of our world.

How open is your heart?  It is important for everyone to balance the need to work hard, to be doing things, with time to connect with others on an emotional level. A strong work-ethic will certainly serve anyone well, but, it is equally important for us to feel that the work we do is valuable. The Ogun energy teaches us that our work must be a worthwhile use of our powerful and focused effort.

Many Oguns judge the contributions they make by the effort that they put forward and what they produce. I like to shift that focus to their open, accepting nature. As an Obatala I admire the loving and straightforward approach of the Oguns in my life. They inspire me to come out of my shell and to connect deeply and honestly with others. I think that is the greatest gift that the children of Ogun have to offer our world.

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