As I was out for a walk recently at the cabin I found myself noticing my shadow and how it changes with the changing landscape contour. Have you ever noticed that of your shadow? Have you even noticed your shadow? Have you noticed that it is constantly changing? At times it is long and skinny (not often enough of that skinny version), short and stubby, refracted, and varying based on the sunlight and the clothes you wear. But the constants remain, we cannot out-walk it, we can’t catch it and you are always casting a shadow even though you cannot always see it! We are casting a shadow on others based on how we behave, communicate, handle ourselves and act.

As I think about this, I realize that our shadows are actually rather spiritual in that they are always with us, but not always seen. Sometimes we do not see it as the day is bright or cloudy. We do not see it as it as at times the shadow is behind us or we are being carried and supported by our faith in a place of safety and comfort that has the shadow directed inward or upward.

At times we have physical company and we see two shadows or possible only see the shadow of our companion who has joined us on our walk or bike ride. What a great, yet very subtle reminder, that our attention should be on those you are with, to caste our shadow onto others as it is a tangible demonstration that we are truly listening, not hearing what is be discussed or felt.

What has struck me is that regardless of the shadow of my outward reflection, what is most important is the substance of the spirit that guides my decisions and purpose and the unseen, but felt, shadow caste on others. What is important is the intentionality of kindness and those around me in living a life with a purpose that has meaning.

I am reminded of this as I spend dinners with my 100year old Uncle and my failing 95 year old mother. My purpose in these two situations is tangible in my learning from how they have and are living their lives, and honoring them with intentional 1:1 time. I am being touched with this symbolic foundational purpose for living meaningfully that they are continuing to teach me, by example, of their faith, grace, class and substance in living life intentionally and with purpose.

Recently I was reminded of this when I had given Timberwolves tickets to a young boy and his grandmother to attend. What was so rewarding, so fun, was watching and feeling through photos and texts their happiness, fun and Joy they were having together at the game. My heart was filled with absolute JOY in having done something that was so fun for someone else. I can say that I had the best Timberwolves Game Experience without even being at the game that I have had for a very long time…….Thank you Sandy and Aden for giving me this gift!

The rewards of Kindness are Priceless!

Despite the direction of the shadow we caste, there is a shadow that is cast upon others that can make an impact in ways that we never anticipated or even looked for.

The Timberwolves ticket experience further helped define purpose in living a meaningful life. This helped me better define what the future looks like for me and to realize that our journey is forward moving and not a circle.

Have you ever felt that your journey is going in circles? and you’re afraid you may end up where you started?

Stop and take a PAUSE, close your eyes and reflect, I have done this and found it insightful and thought provoking that has and continues to require a great deal of thought, introspection, trial and error, forgiveness and courage

I have found that it is like peeling an onion, after each layer, there is another and I find myself wondering if I will ever get to the core as I experience ever present disappointments, fears, tears and joy in the journey.

How have I started to learn how to understand and act or change?:
(Maybe you have your own list? Maybe this list will trigger thoughts for you?)

> To understand that I have the magnificent Power of Choice
> I must be intentional to intercept self-sabotage as I am afraid.
> I have needed to nurture the child within
> I have learned to be both gentle and tough with myself
> I have discovered the power to surround myself with others who are positive and what to understand meaningfulness of others
 >To understand that questioning my beliefs and faith strengthens both.
> We are human; practice grace, forgive yourself and praises all that is good
> Have fun and laugh and learn from your mistakes as we all make them
> Be generous and kind
> Become the person you want to be, not who you are supposed to be. Rid myself of  Comparison as it is devastating and not real!
 >Create a plan and be courageous to be with those who can nurture the plan

That’s all I got today…..have a magnificent journey!