selflessness
The Touching Tale Of The Praying Hands
In the fifteenth century, in a tiny village near Nuremberg, Germany, lived a family with 18 children. Yes, eighteen! To put food on the table for this mob, the father and head of the household, a goldsmith by trade, worked nearly 18 hours a day at his trade, as well as any other paying job he could find in the neighborhood.
Despite their seemingly hopeless situation, Albrecht and Albert, two of the older children, had a dream. They both wanted to pursue their talent for art, but they were well aware that their father would never be financially able to send either of them to an art academy.
After many long discussions at night in their crowded bed, the two boys finally worked out a pact. They would toss a coin. The loser would go down to the nearby mines and use his earnings to support his brother, who would attend the academy.
Then, after four years, when the brother who won the coin toss finished his studies, he in turn would support the mining brother to also attend the academy – either by selling his artwork or, if necessary, by working in the mines.
They tossed a coin one Sunday morning. Albrecht Dürer won the toss and went to Nuremberg to study art. Albert went down into the dangerous mines and spent the next four years financing his brother, whose creative work at the academy was almost immediately a sensation.
Albrecht’s etchings, woodcuts, and oils were far superior to those of most of his fellow students and even his professors, and by the time he graduated he was beginning to earn substantial fees for his commissioned works.
Finding True Purpose In The Unity Of Love
There is a profound truth about life that many people don’t fully grasp until they reach the end of their journey.
Our true purpose in this life not about success, status, or the material things we accumulate. It’s about something far greater and more beautiful: love.
At the core of our existence is the simple yet powerful truth that we are all connected. That is why we must love unconditionally, share our gifts with the world, and show up for others with kindness, compassion, and authenticity.
Yet so often we get caught up in the pursuit of validation, accomplishment, and material success, only to realize – sometimes too late – that love is the greatest accomplishment of all.
Consider a drop of water falling into the ocean. Alone, it may seem small and separate. But the moment it merges with the vast ocean, it’s no longer just a drop-it becomes part of something infinite, part of every wave, every current, and every ripple.
That’s us. We are never really separate; we are all woven into the fabric of existence, flowing together in this great cosmic dance.
And when we live from love – when we choose to be present, to forgive, to uplift others – we become more than ourselves. We become a part of something timeless.
In the end, what matters most is not what we own or what we’ve accomplished, but the love we’ve given, the lives we’ve touched, and the hearts we’ve left a little warmer. Love is the thread that binds us all together, the force that carries us beyond this fleeting moment into eternity.
Surround Yourself With Love, Light And Positive People
Some people emanate a charismatic warmth and depth that is almost otherworldly. Their presence is soothing, their energy uplifting, and their kindness genuine.
These are the souls you want to stay connected with — the ones who inspire, support and nurture your growth. They bring light into your life, and in their company you feel understood, valued, and enriched. Such people are rare gems, and when you find them, you cherish them.
On the other hand, some people remain stagnant in their personal growth and soul evolution. They resist change and cling to old patterns and limiting beliefs. Again, this is part of the human experience, and it is not for others to judge.
Instead, I imagine them finding their own path elsewhere. I envision them thriving, but at a distance from my own journey. It is not selfish to protect your own energy; it is necessary for your health and well-being.
Then there are those who seem perpetually stuck in a schoolyard mentality, indulging in gossip and petty rivalries. Although they have grown physically, their emotional and spiritual maturity lags behind. The game of “grapevine” is their chosen pastime, spreading rumors, conspiracy theories and toxic negativity.
These individuals serve as a spiritual reminder of what we must rise above. Instead of engaging them, release them with love – let them be do their karmic growth somewhere else, far from your peace and joy. Continue reading
Tarot Forecast February 2025: Four Of Pentacles
This month’s card is the Four of Pentacles, symbolizing stability, control, and a strong desire to protect one’s resources.
It speaks to themes of holding on to what you have earned, both materially and emotionally. However, this card also warns against becoming too protective or possessive, which can lead to stagnation and missed opportunities.
The overarching theme for the month is staying in the flow. The Four of Pentacles reminds us that while creating security and stability is important, true balance and a blessed life comes from allowing life’s energies to flow naturally.
Holding on too tightly in an attempt to control everything blocks new possibilities and opportunities, while carelessly letting go completely can lead to instability and chaos.
The challenge for February is to maintain a foundation that is both secure and adaptable — holding on to just enough to guide your path, but remaining open to the unfolding currents of life.
Traditionally, the Four of Pentacles depicts a man sitting firmly on a throne holding four pentacles or coins. He’s holding them firmly, with one balanced on his head, one in his arms, and two under his feet. This image symbolizes material attachment, greed, stinginess, and fear of loss. He is so focused on clinging to his precious possessions that he can’t concentrate on anything else.
Reclaim Your Peace And Power With Healthy Boundaries
Saying “no” is one of the most powerful things we can do to maintain our personal and spiritual well-being and energetic balance.
Many of us are caught up in the daily whirlwind of commitments, expectations, and the constant need to meet the demands of others. For those on a spiritual or esoteric path, this can be especially challenging.
The desire to be compassionate and supportive can sometimes blur the lines between compassion and self-neglect. However, one of the most profound spiritual lessons is this: it is okay to say no. In fact, it is imperative!
Knowing when and how to say no is a critical self-care skill that allows you to set healthy boundaries and protect your time, energy, and mental health. Moreover, it is crucial for our spiritual growth and essential for living a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
Saying no and standing your ground requires recognizing your inherent worth and honoring your personal limits. Too often we stretch ourselves too thin, trying to be all things to all people. This may come from a fear of disappointing others or a belief that our value is in how much we give. Many of us also feel spiritually obligated to be there for others, often because we are so deeply affected by all the struggles and suffering we see in the world around us.
However, when we put the needs of others ahead of our own without balance, we risk depleting our physical, emotional, and spiritual energy. In such a depleted state, we are of no use to anyone.
Ask Spirit For Patience This Holiday Season
The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for some of us, it can also be a time of tension, distress, and intense emotions.
Instead of being a time of gratitude, love, and connection, for some of us the holidays mark the resurfacing of old family conflicts, unresolved tensions, and the weight of others’ overwhelming expectations or criticisms.
These challenges often lead to frustration, sadness, anger, or feelings of being overwhelmed, turning what should be a time of love and belonging into one that underscores where our relationships with loved ones are most strained.
At this point, asking spirit or your higher power to help you cultivate the virtue of patience becomes a powerful way to stay grounded and centered.
Patience isn’t just about enduring difficult moments; it’s about being aware of those moments and choosing to respond with grace and dignity rather than impulsively. When tensions rise — perhaps during a family dinner where conversations may become heated or awkward — it is easy to fall back on old patterns and habitual responses. Asking for spiritual support and protection in these moments, however, can provide a higher perspective and an empowered response.
Whether it’s through a silent prayer, a few deep breaths, whispering your favorite mantra, or simply making a conscious call for help in your mind, spiritual presence can help you pause, step back, ground and center, and approach the situation calmly and with more compassion — for yourself and others.