Words Inspired by the Universe

When I began my spiritual journey, I remember feeling overwhelmed by people and the world, but especially myself. I didn't know where to start and that was the source of my procrastination. I remember thinking to myself, "Well, you have this issue  and THIS issue! Which to tackle first!" What I feel I was missing was a whole-person centered view. My education in Transpersonal Psychology really helped me to see myself as a whole being and not just scattered bits and pieces. I "tried on" various spiritual practices, seeing what resonated for me. I took what I liked from those practices, ditched the rest and integrated them into my daily life. The key word here for me was integration. They became me and I became them. 

 Recently, I've had so many people ask "what I do" in regards to spirituality. It seemingly always feels like they want me to categorize myself into some simplistic box when in truth that is not my reality. I am not a square, so why should I fit myself in a box?! And, don't you think for one minute that I am annoyed or peeved or anything like that. I LOVE talking about my spirituality. But, my answer is always a long-winded one as I describe my personal philosophy on life. Which, usually ensues that glazed-over, "I'm bored now" look. HA! 

For those struggling with the questions "Who am I? What do I believe? What is my purpose?" take a look at what makes you smile, what makes you laugh, what makes you cry and what makes you angry. A lot of the answers to these questions are seated right in the things that light a fire under our butts! Take a deep look at what makes your heart flutter or what makes your blood boil. There are so many beautiful nuggets of wisdom in these experiences. Write them all out and see for yourself who you are! Sometimes it takes a few journal entries and some tears, but you'll soon see a radical transformation in yourself because you're taking the time to journey inward and ask yourself what you think. Not what anyone else thinks.

P.S. If you're wondering, I was raised Catholic. I have studied Eastern philosophy traditions such as Yoga and Buddhism. I have practiced Earth-based traditions like those of our Native American friends and some Pagan traditions as well. I like to work with crystals and I am a Reiki Master. I believe in angels, fairies, star beings, mermaids, unicorns, dragons, elves and magic. These experiences have all been a reality for me. All of these elements are a fusion of who I am. In essence, I am Vanessa. That's it. :)