photo credit: Stuck in Customs
“We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.”
~ T.S. Eliot
What are You Exploring?
Two months ago and it just sort of hit me.
Why am I doing this?
That was the question I asked myself…I asked, and didn’t have an answer. Well…not an answer that really felt “right”.
On the surface, it sure looked like everything was good and fine. {with everything in my life} On the surface…until I looked a bit deeper.
Have you ever had that feeling like you’ve been the “hamster on the wheel”, just going in circles…except, for why? {Why do you do the things you do?} Or, for me: why was I doing the things I did? And when I paused long enough to ask myself that question…I just didn’t have a good answer for the why.
We all have amazing gifts we bring to this world. You. Me. Everyone.
Have we become like the hamster, though? Are our lives like the hamster wheel, as we blindly spin through our day…and then start it all over again?
…and on the surface it all looks good and wonderful…
That makes me think about the image we project, is it our true image?
Or do we create safety zones. Safety zones such as our job, our family, our hobbies, our habits. Safety zones that give us that surface look of good and fine? Safety zones that buffer our true image? Is there something deeper beyond these safety zones, though?
{Are there parts of you that feel vulnerable? Is there a zone that feels unsure? Do you sometimes wonder why…why you’re doing what you do?}
Back to these last couple of months for me…(it seems like I am easily sidetracked…) A time to explore the “why” behind all that I do, all that I am.
A time to go past that safety zone (the one of career, family, this site…).
…a time to go deeper, a time to listen, a time to be…
Sometimes, perhaps, that has to be a very solitary journey. Not a time to be an open book…a time to open the book. Not a time to lay it all on the line…a time to really see the line. Not a time to bare the soul…a time to look into soul, in all its nakedness.
And so it has been.
The Commitment
I don’t even remember now, what it was that triggered the thought…the thought of taking this blogging sabbatical I’ve been on. I’ve decided it doesn’t matter, though. What’s mattered is what this time has meant. What’s mattered is the commitment I made to do this, because it just “felt right”. You know that “voice within”…your intuition, gut feeling, inner vibe, sixth sense.. We all have this (now, whether we are listening or not…that’s another story).
It felt, in a way, like I was abandoning everything I had created here in this space. {have you ever felt like you’re abandoning something deeply meaningful to you?}
That voice though, when I really listened, was speaking very clearly. Was speaking very clearly to me.
And so, a commitment to pause.
More than just a commitment to pause, though — this was a commitment to me, to be still and listen.
Might it feel vulnerable? {yes}
Might it take me out of the safety zones I portrayed? {yes}
Might I sway off course from my own personal commitment? {yes}
Might it all be so worth it, all that would come from this commitment to me? {a resounding yes}
These past many weeks have been all of this.
- I’ve questioned if I really know my purpose here (both here in this space, and for my time here on earth).
- I’ve questioned how much it matters that I know this.
- I’ve questioned if I’m living fully and authentically to words which hold deep meaning for me:
“To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children … to leave the world a better place … to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
- I’ve questioned what it means to be vulnerable.
- I’ve questioned the why of all that I do.
- I’ve questioned what holds me back from shining my own light.
And I’ve committed to living. Living…in the full sense of that word, and all it brings with it.
The Emerging
So today I return to this space…and everything is the same, and everything is different.
The emerging will continue (as perhaps, on some level, it does for all of us). For me, this emerging is with deeper clarity and purpose.
Today, I choose to continue to emerge…emerge not just on the surface, but from all parts of me. And this space will continue to evolve as this new unfolding continues.
How about you? How do you choose to emerge?
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
~ Robert Frost
May our journey together here continue to enlighten all of us…
Hi Lance
It is wonderful to see you back
Welcome, welcome 
Oh Lance, yes, you asked some fantastic questions and at the end of it all I hear two words: consciousness and presence. Are we doing all that we do from a state of presence? From a state of consciousness? If not, I invite us to get off that hamster wheel and look deeper within.
In this day and age, at this time of this beautiful awakening for so many on our planet, I don’t think we can afford to do things aimless anymore, where everything looks great on the surface but inside we are missing something, aching for something, needing something. And it is not that we cannot afford this for others, or society, but for ourselves. Too many of us today are done with the games, done with the insanities, done with unconscious ways of living, simply going from one habit, one belief, one tradition to another, just because this is how it has always been done.
I appreciate so much your space and your current state because it is honest and authentic. May this journey continue to bring even more of all of that, but most importantly, even more conscious presence.
Evita´s Last Fabulous Post ..Book Review– Healing Through the Akashic Records
Evita,
Thank YOU!! It’s great to be back!
Mmmm…love how you have summed this all up with two very meaningful words: consciousness and presence. Our life IS happening — for each of us. How fully present we are of this, though, is up to us. It’s a choice we each must choose…
The awakening that is happening…what a wonderful thing this is, both to experience, and to be here in this time and place.
Evita, know that your presence here always brings deeper insight and thought…and what a beautiful gift that is which you share.
I returned today after a break from my blog as well. I didn’t plan to be gone, I just had some exploring of my own to do. Isn’t it wonderful to be able to come back to a place where you know you can be real. Our posts have some similarities. I too have returned with deeper clarity and purpose. I’m really glad to be on this journey with you. Thank you for being here.
Shiny Jill´s Last Fabulous Post ..I am that person
Jill,
I was just over to read your very meaningful and touching post. And it feels very much like we’re both stepping back here into these spaces with deeper clarity and purpose.
And, Jill, you are an amazing person. There’s just this sense of peace I feel whenever I read your words (here, or on your site).
…this journey that we both travel…it is wonderful to be on this together…
Hi Fancy Lancey pants!
Blue Bunny and I missed you a lot, but you are ever in our hearts of course. I feel that a friend of Lance’s stays for life, and that says much about you.
A time or two earlier on I asked myself why I was blogging, but as friendships continued to grow and strengthen I realized that was enough, and I learned to trust creativity would continue to unfold and knows no end.
Me and emerging? Continuing to use my gifts to bring songs and maybe a bit of fun now and then to the world. I’m in a good spot now, after a couple months of lessons learned with my latest project. Feeling content, and letting things be how they want to.
whoooohooooo!!
xoxo
Jannie Funster´s Last Fabulous Post ..On Poetry In Maine
Jannie Bannanie!!
I’ve missed you guys too (and Kelly and Jimmy too!).
The friendships we can develop…they are truly special. And to think, we can do this without even meeting someone…get to know them so, so well. (it makes meeting in person pretty special when it happens)
Continue singing, dear friend. And being goofy. And having fun. And loving your family.
Your friendship is special and wonderful…and ALWAYS will be.
From Wisconsin to you,
Lance
xxoo
I’m starting to do this questioning of my purpose myself these days.. it’s not easy, but I think I am getting closer to finding it. It’s to share my gifts with the rest of the world in all ways possible.
Henway´s Last Fabulous Post ..iPage Review
Henway,
Questioning our purpose…is not always easy. Because it can certainly bring us to some places where we “see” we’re not living fully in alignment with our deeper self (I know I’ve been in this place, and have moments where continues to come up).
That’s the beauty of all of this, though — it’s as you say — you move closer to fully connecting with your true peak. And the gifts that come from this place…they hold special meaning.…
Dearest and Sweetest Lance!! I am right now..ok just before I started typing this comment, did a happy dance..cause Yaahooo…you are back! I’ve missed your energy here so much.…. So firstly a huge warm welcome back.
As for the emerging…oh aren’t we all on the same path, just in different places? I am happy you took the time to look within, see, hear and understand the REAL you. Its a beautiful becoming…and its shows in all the the subtle additions I see here on your site. I see the coaching buttons..and am so glad you have taken this step. You are brilliant..and you can make us all brilliant with you
May you keep emerging…emerging to that highest peak, and I am so so so happy to be with you on this journey, even if only in spirit
Many more happy, shiny colorful rainbows await thee…
Much love always,
Z~
Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s Last Fabulous Post ..I Cannot Detach Myself
Wonderful Zeenat,
.…I’m dancing with you!!! Yahoo!!!!!
This time away, it has really been so good for my soul. And as strange as it felt to take this break, as soon as I fully committed to it…it was as if a load was lifted off of my shoulders. (and I knew, instantly, that this decision was spoken from my heart…)
The biggest thing for me has been this idea that I DO emerge, and when I follow the emerging voice in my heart…it is all good and right (no matter what happens).
Rainbows!! Rainbows to you, wonderful, bright, shiny, rainbow-filled soul!
Love you…always,
Lance
Dearest Lance,
I’m so happy you are back! I’ve missed your surges of positive energy laughter, and joy, but also respected your need to retreat. And what a profound retreat it has clearly been.
Isn’t this the most important question in life? “Why am I doing this?” One that we need to ask again and again? I certainly ask this myself from time to time.
You have so much courage to go within and dance with this crucial question. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. May we all continue emerging.
Sandra / Always Well Within´s Last Fabulous Post ..1 in 3 Gluten Sensitive Could It Be You
Sandra,
{big smiles and big hugs}
Such an important life question — the “why” of doing what we do. And one that is so worth asking, not just once, but many times throughout our lifetime.
Sandra, your presence here is a gift. And that’s you, sharing so authentically, for caring, and for loving.
With love,
Lance
What I’m exploring is: How do I make a good income doing what I love?
What’s emerging is getting to know my people and finding what communicates, learning what they are interested in and so on.
Evan,
It’s great having you here!
The intersection of doing what you love, and making that sustainable…I hear you loud and clear! In fact, it’s something I’ve been digging more deeply into, myself.
And I believe you are right on — it starts with meaningful connections with others — and then creating something that is valuable (with care) for these people (and their friends).
Best of luck…and if there’s anything I can do to support you on your journey, just let me know.
Lance! So good to see you — I’m glad the sabbatical has given you time to reflect and grow. I love the Jungle of Life logo artwork — beautiful and lyrical.
I’m in my journey and perhaps spinning my wheels a bit, but blogging has brought much positivity to my life and so I continue.
Lynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Entrance– clippings and building a home
Lynn,
So good to see YOU!!!
This time away really has been so meaningful to me…and so worth it.
Thanks (re: the artwork) — I have been tweaking a few things here (and that’s been a lot of fun, too!).
The “spinning of the wheels”…maybe it’s something that happens to all of us from time to time (it does for me). These can really be positive moments, too — when we recognize this (at a deeper level), which can lead us to some pretty wonderful places.…
(and I agree wholeheartedly — blogging truly has been such a positive force in my life, too…) (and it’s because of amazing people…like you…)
Lance,
So beauty filled..each and every word and thought..and you honored your words and thoughts by honoring the natural ebb and flow of life..of creating!
When you ask why do we do this? Love..the Answer is always love. And, yes, love sometimes seeks a safe zone to rest, rejuvenate, refresh, especially because what you share like so many others is straight from the heart, you are sharing a piece of your self..so it is imperative to take time to re-member your self. And, yes, love evolves, then emerges able to transform all it touches–you, me, everyone…
So, thank you for having the faith, strength, courage to honor all that has been presented to you, within you..and thank you for continuing to share as openly and lovingly as you do!
Yay..Lance is back:)
Joy´s Last Fabulous Post ..Passion Series– All is a Miracle!
Joy,
So, so wonderful to see you here this morning! {big hugs}
At our core…love IS it. So then, it’s in connecting to what brings us most meaning in our life…and love will flow from that space. Joy, you shine what love is truly all about…and what a gift that is to the world…to me…
…and it is really good to be back…
Lance,
I didn’t know I was doing it until I got to the end, but when you said you were back, my breath came wooshing out in a huge tumble from being held so tightly in my lungs.
I think I was actually scared. Scared that we could loose such an important part of our community, a man who keeps us grounded in the important things. The very important WHY.
There have been many times during your sabbatical that I have been SO tempted to email or contact you and say NO!!! Don’t LEAVE!!! But held back, out of respect for the process and understanding of what you are submitting to. It was truly my own selfishness that wanted you right here, where I could always find you, like a security blanket to comfort and support.
You are brave to to walk through the desert for the forty days and forty nights (metaphorically) of self reflection that it takes to find yourself. Not many mentors are willing to submit to it themselves. The mirror is not always our friend, but it will always guide our path. You were willing to take the deep hard look and I want to tell you how much I respect that.
Well done, welcome back.
Hugs.
Wendi,
I want to start this just by saying you deeply meaningful and touching your comment is to me. (thank you, very deeply…for the words you have shared here today)
And it’s interesting that you bring up the words “security blanket”, as this place has come to feel that way for me, too. So, in a way — it was me, stepping away from that security blanket. And the good from this has been that — while this space here continues on now — it has also helped me to gain more personal insight into what this has all meant, what this continues to mean, and where this all goes from here. So, I’m thinking about some further changes — ones that continue to provide security, community, and deep sharing — while also creating an extra sense of peace for me.
And while I hadn’t really correlated all of this timing to Lent, what a beautiful way to look at this (and I thank you, once again, for this…which is making me think even more deeply about what this has meant for me).
Wendi…you are such a gift in my life, and it is an honor to have you here today.
Hugs and big, big love…
Lance
Lance, reading your returning message has been surprisingly emotional for me. I wondered how many others welled up with emotion — some of “our family” here already suggested that. I believe you speak clearly on behalf of the human experience such that we relate and go to yet another level within.
Your TS Eliot quote meant more today than before because of your post. Returning to a childlike state is enlightenment. You accomplish that here. It’s putting mind, body, emotions, and Spirit in alignment.
Thanks, dear Lance — Welcome back!
Holly
“We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.”
~ T.S. Eliot
Holly,
Your words here today…they are so meaningful to me.
It all reminds me of how deeply connected we are, and what this human experience is all about…the connection with others, the being in communion on this journey.…
The T.S. Elliot quote came to me instantly, as I began to write this article. And it did, because it just felt so real, so personal, so “understood”…in that moment.
Holly, your presence in my life continues to touch me deeply. I suppose that is made even stronger by the time we spent together…in the human connection that was made from a deeper inside place, and then out into the more outwardly place from there. I’m so, so grateful for you…
With love,
Lance
Hi Lance, it’s great that you’re back and well! I think what you’ve gone through is pretty normal. Sometimes, we have been so busy on the threadmill that we forget to ask ourselves why we are doing all that sprinting. It’s important to have awareness on what our higher intent is. Otherwise, we’d just get caught up in the doing and not the being.
I look forward to the continued blossoming of this space! Looks like the community cannot wait for you to get started
Welcome back!
With love,
Evelyn
Evelyn Lim´s Last Fabulous Post ..Self Love Story– Lessons From the Heart
Evelyn,
…the ebb and flow of life…
And that’s it — we can become caught up in the doing (and not that doing, per se, is bad) without a deeper understanding (and awareness) of our being. When these are in alignment, though, what a beautiful place to come from…
Evelyn, thank you…for today, and for always.…for the friendship you have so wonderfully shared with me.
Love and big hugs,
Lance
Welcome back Lance. Lovely to read your words and see into your soul.
Katie´s Last Fabulous Post ..Do You Have Grit
Katie,
Thank you so much for being here. And know that you have been such a source of inspiration and a guiding light for me.
Much love,
Lance
Hearty welcome back to the blogosphere, Lance! It’s wonderful to discover that your sabbatical is yielding more beautiful messages on the Jungle telegraph
Naomi Estment´s Last Fabulous Post ..Move over BFF– we’re talking MBF
Naomi,
So, so wonderful to “see” you here today!!
It’s great to be back…and to have you here and sharing your friendship…
Hi Lance, great to see you here again!
Love your question about abandoning something important to us, as you know I’m the abandonment woman! I’m very passionate about learning to live and love with abandon and sometimes that means abandoning something that is deeply meaningful. I emerge only when I’m in the center of God’s will, He has some many good things planned for me and when I go my own way, I end up shut down in the fetal position emotionally, wondering where it all went wrong. But when I do what He is asking me to do and live like He wants me to live.…then I’m truly living and loving others with abandon.
Audra Krell´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Pitcher Whisperer
Audra,
Thank YOU!!!! And…it’s great to have you here today!
Ah…abandonment — I know that’s a word that has special meaning to you.
And that’s exactly it — what am I willing to abandon (even if it has meaning to me) to move into something even more special and with more meaning? When we come from the center of our being (a place in which I believe that God resides) we touch upon this place of deeper meaning (and the Universe is there to support us).
So, Audra, know that your words complement all the thoughts I’ve been having, and it’s so good to hear them spoken from you…with the conviction I know they hold.
Peace,
Lance
Welcome back! You have been greatly missed here.
DareToBecome´s Last Fabulous Post ..Replacing Fear With Fun
Lori!
Thank you, thank you, thank you!! It’s so great having you here today!
Hello … Lance … well well well .… welcome back — isn’t it amazing .. just reading the list of commenters and see everyone here in the same place — it’s almost as though they’ve been waiting for you with their comments tucked up their sleeves … brilliant news.
I love the new look .. I’ll be around and scanning .. just being a part of the Lance team .. is good news for me .. cheers and so good to see you .. Happy Easter .. and choccy eggs ..
See you soon .. Hilary
Hilary´s Last Fabulous Post ..Q is for Quern-Stone — that is what Q is for
Hilary,
Thanks so much…it’s great to be back!
And thank you, as well, about the new look around here — I believe it fits really well with the message that I hope I’m conveying in the words I share.
And…Hilary…it’s super great having you as part of the team!! Woohoo!!
Happy Easter…and jelly beans!
Lance
Lance!
The world missed you. Im trying to emerge but I don’t have a plan just doing what feels right until it feels wrong.
Angel´s Last Fabulous Post ..Full Body Workout x 5
Angel!!
While not everyone would agree, I’m sure…I really believe you are on a good path. Doing what feels right…until it doesn’t anymore — and then really realizing this — how wonderful!! Really. I *love* this that you have shared…
Lance!
Delighted to see you out here. And it’s wonderful to know that you’ve created the space in your life to ask yourself the important questions. The best part of it all is that you paid attention to your gut, to that “inner knowing” that always has the answer to what you need. Kudos to you!
Blessings to you as the emerging continues to unfold. Reminds me of a butterfly and how they emerge in their own perfect timing. I wrote a blog post on that once because butterflies (and all of nature) is such a great teacher for us.
Keep on enjoying life and shining your light.
Peace!
Michelle @ Following Your Joy´s Last Fabulous Post ..Does Your ‘Stuff’ Have a Hold On You
Michelle,
And I.…am delighted to see you here, also!
As hard as this idea was to “step away”…it also became so crystal clear that it was the right thing for me, the moment I committed to it. And — I was really surprised at that feeling — the feeling of how I could really just tell this was so, so right. And…I guess that is the “really listening to your gut” part!
Yes, nature is really such a “life lesson” producer…if we really notice all of it (or even small parts…like the beautiful butterfly).
I WILL keep shining my light…and it shines brighter because YOU are here, shining your light, too..
Peace and love,
Lance
Welcome back & maybe one day you will figure out the “why” behind the need for a sabbatical but I am sure it is all good no matter what!
I have been rethinking as well.… will see where it takes me but some hard thinking needs to be done. Not sure blogging is the way for me but time will tell…
Jody — Fit at 53´s Last Fabulous Post ..Gatorade G Series FIT Workout Products
Jody,
Thanks!!
You know, I do believe I know the “why” behind the sabbatical. For me, this was really about taking this time to re-focus. And to do this, without the distractions that everyday life (and the blog had definitely become everyday life!) was creating. So, by pausing here in this space, I freed myself from this space — giving me a clearer picture of who I am, and why I’m here.
Jody, should you decide to step away from blogging — know that you are supported. And I do encourage you to really ask yourself what your “why” is in doing this. Know also that I take so much from all that you share. You are a source of ideas, or helping me to challenge myself, and of inspiring me to really keep my fitness routine active. (and I thank you, very deeply, for that)
Lance, I breathe easier because you live. Really! Welcome back, I’ve missed your voice. I hope your sabbatical has been everything you needed and wanted!
Adrenalynn´s Last Fabulous Post ..Help me help you
Lynn,
Your first sentence…it reaches to my soul in a way that’s hard to describe. Just know that this means so, so much to me — as does your presence here.
These past couple of months have been refreshing and renewing. Knowing you are out there is all of that, also…
Love and hugs,
Lance
Hi Lance
Can’t tell you how lovely it is to have you back. But I understand the pause. And I understand the search. In fact… I understand implicitly every word you’ve spoken here.
My emergence has been ongoing as you know… and I know you understand. But this is not about me… it’s about you and the need for all of us to do what you have done. To stop. To pause. And to ask the big question why.
Why am I doing this? What does it mean… for me… and the world? It IS that big. And it’s important for us to get it right for ourselves and everyone else. To be true to ourselves is our only real calling here. We need to find that truth.
So glad you took the time… even though we missed you. Thanks so much for being here.
So happy you’re back!
Jean x
Jean Burman´s Last Fabulous Post ..Painting The Light and finding passion in the process
Jean!!
Lovely…is YOU…being here! (well, really — lovely is just you, being you…and I’m just super happy you chose to spend some of that time here!)
Mmmm…yes, I understand. And that’s it — it’s about each of us finding our own answers to the “why’s” of what we do. It is that big because this is your life (just like my life…it is my life). How are we choosing to spend our moments…the moments that are our lives?
Jean. You are such a gift to me. Know that I am deeply grateful for your presence in my life…so, so grateful…
Much love to you,
Lance
xxoo
Hi Lance,
Great post! I do sometimes feel like that hamster on the wheel… esp. at this time of the year as school (I“m a teacher and mother) draws to a close. Emerging is a wonderful word. We teachers of young children are always talking about butterflies in the spring and that word is always coming up. And I love your quotes, exp. Emerson’s. Great inspiration!
Thanks!
Betsy
Hi Betsy,
First off…thank you so much for the time you give to the future of our world (both as a mother and a teacher).
Being that “hamster on the wheel”.…I suppose it’s about recognizing that when it begins to happen (awareness) and then choosing what to do . I wish you much internal peace…as this school year finishes up…
Thank you so, so much for being here!
Lance,
It’s great to have you, your voice and spirit back –we missed you!
Alex
Alex,
It’s great to be back — and that’s made even more meaningful to me by you (and others) who have openly welcomed me back. Thank you!!
It’s great to have you positive presence around, Lance. You have the divine right to change your mind … and if that doesn’t feel right, change it again…
rob white´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Smartest Task You Can Take On
Rob,
Thanks, my friend!
This is all part of that journey…the journey toward my own true peak. And like the words of Robert Frost, roads may diverge…and I’m okay with all of that. (as we all can be…)
Lance! I’ve missed you! It’s so nice to see you back.
I have been struggling with purpose for a while now. I’m wondering if the more I look for it, the more elusive it is. I think the key is to sit still and listen! Not my strong suit. Perhaps because it does make me feel too vulnerable. Like a sitting duck, so to speak! Vulnerable is not a strong suit for me, growing up in the home I did, it was more about duck and cover, never let em see you sweat or cry. Hold those cards tight to your vest.
I have felt very sad lately because I don’t know my purpose, if I have a purpose. Your words make me realize that being uncomfortable and vulnerable, quiet and still, are parts of this journey. For me uncomfortable parts, but parts none the less!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts!
I have missed you my friend!
xo
Nat
Natalia´s Last Fabulous Post ..Life without a car
Natalia!
So, so great to see you here!!
This idea of finding our purpose, it’s one that is ever-evolving, just as we are. And there can definitely be some fear and vulnerability around living from that place of deeper meaning (I know!). For me, the thought that can sometimes hold me back is that “what if I get to this place that feels right, and I’m sucky, or people ridicule me, or I flop big time”. What I’m realizing, though, is that it’s me who will likely remember all of this, not others. And, if I flop…I see it as a moment of learning. (this has definitely been a process to get to this stage…and still continues to be…).
Natalia, I just want you to know — I think what you have shared here speaks volumes to who you are, and to who you are as a person. And all of these things — even the moments that can feel a bit sad — they all are part of your journey (and there is good in all of that).
It is really so wonderful having you here, and for having you share so openly.
Love and hugs,
Lance
Hey there Lance! Great to see you back on, refreshed, and rollin’ on! I think taking breaks from our routines (and sometimes self-inflicted stressors) is a great idea. It’s kind of like a nice spring cleaning of habits and brain clutter. So welcome back!
Hugs
suZen
Suzen!!
Hi!!!
It’s great to be “rollin’ on”!!
The spring cleaning has been so refreshing for me — and, in a way, I have done this both mentally and physically…all in such good ways.
Great to have you here!!
Big hugs!
Lance
GREAT post Lance! My safety zones are just that. The box that is my frame of reference. What I fall back on and what keeps the hamster wheel spinning. Is it what I perceive I need for my days to have any meaning, because it is all I know.
It becomes easy to become comfortable in the answers of yesterday, but in order to reach new, extraordinary outcomes, we must be willing to step out of certainty and into the unknown. And so explore we must!
Cheers!
Chris Barba´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mental Slavery
Chris,
Thanks!!
Yes, there’s this element of exploration — in all the forms that takes. From the physical, to the mental and spiritual…all of these forms of exploring (and stepping out of our comfort zones) bring such great rewards. And the rewards…the internal rewards we reap…help to move us to the next plane in our life journey…
Thanks so much for being here!
Hi Lance!
It’s great to have you back! Although, while you were away, your {energy} was still felt here, as I read past posts. I was enlightened!
Todays post is filled with so much to think about.…
I am always exploring…learning…commitment is the toughest step. But I believe that we each must do what feels right for us. We may fail, and there may be better ways, but we will find our way, our unique path, through our exploring. We each emerge in our own way and in our own time.
We each have our own {light}, our different gifts & talents to share. We must recognize & honor the light in others as well as our own. Lance, you are lighting the way! Lets shine together on this journey, my friend.
Here is a huge welcome back {HUG!}
Much love,
Julie
Hi Julie!!
{I’m smiling} It’s so, so wonderful having you here…
Committing to something…that is a challenging step. And it is, because what if it doesn’t go as you expect? Still, there is so much we get from making these commitments, and then following through (whatever that means for each of us).
Julie, your amazing and beautiful light shines so brightly in my life…and what an honor it is to have you here, and to call you friend.
Yes, let’s shine together!!
Big, big hugs and lots of love,
Lance
xoxo
Hi Lance,
What a life changing two months. I’m happy your back and all is well in the blogging world. Wise people know when to step out and went to step within. But that doesn’t surprise me about you!
Tess The Bold Life´s Last Fabulous Post ..Tips to Save Money On Gas and Take Your Power Back
Tess!!
Yes, these two months have been life changing. I think a lot of that was internal changes…and just how I view everything that I do. Where that takes me next, I’m not fully sure. What I do know, though, is that this is the “right” place for me to be…
So, so great having you here, dear friend…
Much love,
Lance
He’s back, and this feels really, really right! Lance, your story is the all of our stories. I think there is an energy dancing about, which is asking all of us to really look at who and what we are, why we do what we do, and come up with the one answer: because to be / do / live… is to love. Even when what we’re doing or how we’re doing it don’t look like love, love is ever present. I read somewhere that God doesn’t make mistakes (so you, me, them? all are PERFECT exactly as is… no changes required). I also read that we know when we’ve accomplished our missions here on earth: it’s called death. Until then, we still have meaning, purpose, love to spread.
I’m part of your volunteer army, Lance, to continue exploring, laughing, loving and sharing. YOU, my friend, are AWESOME!
Megan “JoyGirl!” Bord´s Last Fabulous Post ..One-Day Healing Workshop w– Simon Hay and Oneonta Wellness
Ms. Joygirl!!!!
Guess what??? I am all filled with joy right now…because I’m reading your wonderful thoughts! (you make me smile!)
Megan, I want you to know, too — that you helped make these last couple of months possible. You have, because I know that you have been there (maybe about a year ago) — where you felt the pull to stop. And in that, I have just witnessed you soaring to new heights, and continuing to flow with deep love. All of that, Megan, was so good for me to think about — as I’ve been going through this myself. YOU are a leader in this brigade of courageously stepping away…and moving more deeply into you. (thank you, so so much…)
And since we’re still alive…our mission (and our love) here on this earth continues!
By the way…I’m declaring you as captain of the army! Let’s continue laughing, living, loving, and exploring together!
Big, big hugs…
Lance
xoxo
Hi Lance,
Yes, it’s important to find what I call “your fearless why.” It’s something I encourage my design clients to find before we embark on any kind of marketing materials. I, too, was feeling a bit out of sync with myself until I spent several months finding my own why, my own life theme. We all have one if we take the time to see that underlying pattern that weaves through our entire lives beginning in the childhood years.
Our schooling system suppresses that unique why to get us ready to be corporate slogs or governmental slogs or shopping slogs. Alive, why-filled people are harder to keep in line. Watch any above ground subway car go by and you’ll see slogdom in action.
Just recently I realized that school/work serves to break our wild spirits, like you take a beautiful stallion and “break” him so you can own him. Inside though, down deep the wildness remains.
I fought the folks trying to break my spirit and only got half “trained.” Then I realized I’d help put the bit into my own mouth and spit it out! I went back to my wilder, less tamed self. It feels right. I believe we are all way too obedient and need to disobey more to be true to our wild selves.
Best wishes for finding your fearless why … G.
Giulietta Nardone´s Last Fabulous Post ..Walking Ten Miles in Someone Else’s Shoes
Giulietta,
The “fearless why”…mmm…I love that!
And that’s it…it’s in consciously taking the time to get to know ourselves. And in doing that, we will see ourselves as for the first time (and how we have always been).
Slogdom? Is that a word? If it’s not — then I think you’ve invented a very awesome word to describe this life where we put ourselves on autopilot and go through our days…and for what?
Here’s to letting the wild within us out!
And…your “disobeying” ways…you know what?? That makes me want to connect even more with you!! Let’s keep in touch…who knows…maybe there’s a way we can cause a ruckus together!! (and I’m serious about that!).
Great, great, great having you here!
Hi Lance,
I’m totally with you about exploring the why of blogging. I know the reasons I started are different from the reasons I continue.…
I like the human connection — as crazy as it sounds since we are communicating through technology and most of us have never met. I also think the comments we receive help us feel valued and the posts we read help us get to know the blogger. It’s a technological conversation and an interaction we crave as social animals. I can easily spot posts that are lack “heart” and have been written merely to create content in order to market the blogger. I’m interested in reading posts that resonate with my soul — like your post has done today Lance. Welcome back!
Angela Artemis´s Last Fabulous Post ..The Power of Perseverance– A Message of Hope
Hi Angela,
Thanks — it’s great to be back!
Yes, that human connection — that’s something that is so, so meaningful about being here in this space for me, too (and for the visits to other sites, like yours). We connect, I believe, at a deeper level. So, if and when those connections move from this space to in-person — it’s like meeting a friend you know so well (which is so, so wonderful).
That “why”…perhaps it will be an ongoing question for each of us as our journeys continue.
Know that it is so good having you here, and for your friendship and support…
I can SO related to this blog post. I have been emerging…and evolving. Prior to changing my blog’s name, my initial thought was to go on a 3 month blogging sabbatical…to just be and think. Instead, I changed my blog, let go of the “make believe” pressure, and decided to do what I used to do years ago, which is to simply write for ME.
A hamster wheel? Holding on to my unwanted safety zones? Yup. I here you. It’s an evolving jungle of life and it’s so much better knowing you too are going on your own journey, right along side me.
Thank you Lance, for sharing your jungle and your journey.
~ Stacey
Stacey´s Last Fabulous Post ..Mom Cave – A Space That’s All About You!
Stacey,
I *love* this…that you are doing “Evolving Stacey” for you. And what a gift, I’m sure, this will be, as you continue to emerge and evolve…just as you are…
What’s so neat, is how we’ve been connected from near the beginning of our online endeavors. So, knowing that we continue this journey together, Stacey, this is deeply meaningful to me.
Whatever lies ahead…for you, for me…just knowing you’re out there, it’s a gift…a gift I treasure very much.
Lance, this post is such a gift!
I would guess that we all go through moments in life when we feel we are on a hamster wheel. (I could be wrong, maybe there some people that are free from it). I’ve come to a sort of inner peace with life — and when I’m on a hamster-wheel I know it’s best if I don’t stay there too long.
“…a time to go deeper, a time to listen, a time to be…” such a brilliant choice to commit to ones process and be willing to pause for a moment and go within. A brilliant and necessary thing to do.
Thank you for this brilliant post !
Aileen | Kaizen Vision´s Last Fabulous Post ..Stumble… Fall… Breathe…
Aileen,
Thank you so much for these wonderful words you’ve shared.
And the key word in all of this — the word “commit”. Because it’s easy to say these things — and another altogether to act. So — my action — to pause (which, funnily, doesn’t seem like much of an action as I type this!) — provided a new level of clarity for me. And that…that is so meaningful to me as I resume this journey…with new eyes…
Thank you for being here and for the gift of your friendship.
I’ve been experimenting in ways to emerge lately. Through prayer, meditation, being myself — and a myriad of other ways. I’ve come to realize that it’s all about accepting who I am, and letting my inner talents come to fruition.
I like what’s been written above. Commit. Commit to being better, and choosing to make a difference in your life. If you make that your #1 priority — you WILL go far in everything.
Christian Hollingsworth´s Last Fabulous Post ..If Walt Disney had a blog…
Christian,
You sounds like you are in a great place in your life right now — accepting YOU and seeing yourself from the inside out.
I’ve found meditation, as well, to be so beneficial in this whole journey — and in my really knowing me.
Wishing you well on this path you are on.
And…it’s great to “meet” you here in this space!
Peace,
Lance
Lance, thanks for modeling the courage to listen to your intuition and to take the Sabbatical. I love the new blog look and energy that has emerged from your taking the time to ‘sharpen the saw.’ I look forward to all the new things that will continue to emerge from your time off
Steve-Personal Success Factors´s Last Fabulous Post ..Here’s Your Personal Development Plan for 2011 And Beyond
Steve,
This sabbatical was so, so good for me — and now that I’m back, I feel refreshed and renewed.
I did make some cosmetic changes to the blog during this break, so thanks for noticing them, too!
Hope all is well with you, and I look forward to our continued friendship.
Hi there, mate. Thanks a lot for sharing this. A commitment, is truly something that we need to keep on holding onto i think. Anyway, this is one inspiring story. Great share!
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