Spirit, intuition,
gut feeling, sense....all words that define the guidance we receive on a daily basis.
If we are willing to “listen” we will be guided with right action moment by
moment.
Recently, I had one
of the most profound experiences of my life that was enhanced by following my
guidance. Fortunately, I listened to what I was meant to do to be fully present
for this incredible experience.
Over the weekend I
attended a book marketing conference I had anticipated being a part of for
months. As an exhibitor I joined my colleagues, Christine Kloser and Lynne
Klippel of Love Your Life Publishing, for a weekend of networking, connecting,
fun and learning.
With every
intention of staying until Monday, my plans quickly changed when I felt called
to head to my parent’s home on Sunday.
Three weeks prior my
father was diagnosed with terminal cancer. With a strong “feeling” that his
time of transition was near, I booked a one way flight from San Diego to
Sacramento. The flight was scheduled to leave only hours from when I got this
incredibly strong sense to be with my father and mother.
From
the moment I made this decision everything opened for me to get home to my
mother and father’s side.
I am so very grateful I followed my heart, leaving when I did. Upon arriving at my father’s bedside in the early afternoon on Sunday, I knew I made the correct decision. There was absolutely no doubt in my mind of this truth.
On
Monday morning my mother, sisters and I were at my father’s side as he
transitioned from this life. His passing was gentle; surrounded with a deep
sense of love.
Had
I stayed at the conference as originally planned, ignoring the strong sense to
leave a day early, I would have missed this most profound experience.
What
an amazing confirmation we "intuitively know" what we are guided to
do. When we honor this guidance we are blessed with the gifts life has to
offer.
It
is through following my intuition I was called to write my thoughts for others
to read. I have known for many decades there is something beyond what we can
see, feel, touch or taste. There is a dimension that goes far beyond the physical.
As
I have reflected on all that has transpired in the last 48 hours, I am reminded
of a recent conversation with a group of colleagues regarding how much personal
information is appropriate to share with our business community.
Some
believe it is inappropriate to share anything other than “business as usual”
information; sharing nothing about our personal life.
Others
believe it is very appropriate to share what we are “called” to share. This is the
belief I hold.
With
so much pain in the world, it is through our transparency and authenticity we heal
while creating the space for others to experience their healing.
Imagine
how lonely it is for those who keep their lives in well protected compartments;
compartments that keep one in a space of separation rather than connectedness
to others.
Is
it because of separation so many experience fear, loneliness and confusion. Some
hold strong beliefs that only what can be seen and controlled is what life is
about; nothing less, nothing, nothing more. I let go of that belief many
decades ago and am grateful I did.
There
is a deep sense of freedom knowing there IS so much more than beyond what is visible
to the naked eye. It is in this freedom we find the greatest sense of purpose
and connectedness.
Ours
is not to live a life of separation, but rather to be in connection to all that
is. It is in this belief we are able to recognize how precious each day is; the
only day we can be in resolve in all we do, say and feel.
Our
greatest gift to this life is to recognize the power that resides in our
ability to incorporate our purpose and message through what we are called to do
professionally, personally and spiritually.
May
your day be one of resolve with a deep understanding and level of gratitude in
knowing there is no tomorrow and no yesterday. There is only this moment. May
this moment be filled with a deep connection to your purpose.
Your
comments are welcomed and encouraged.
Dear Kathleen -
My heart goes out to you for the loss of your father. Even knowing it's expected and that he's at peace, doesn't make it any easier. I have been on your journey, with both of my parents, and know you're speaking your heart to every fiber of your soul. The blessing is that nothing was left unsaid. You had the opportunity to let your father know how very much he meant to you and the impact he had on your life. This is such a gift, and I'm grateful that I had that opportunity myself.
Cherish every memory. Know that he will live always in your heart as he sings with the angels.
Fondly,
Tish
Posted by: Tish Tisherman | October 13, 2009 at 12:29 PM
Dear Kathleen,
Even if I know how this can be difficult, I am glad you have had the privilege of being with your father as he transitioned from this life. I also had this privilege when my own father passed out, a moment dear to my heart I won't ever forget.
I also find it is very appropriate to share what we are "called" to share... and I am glad that you have followed your heart today - once again!
Blessings,
Chantal
Posted by: Chantal Beaupré | October 13, 2009 at 01:05 PM
Hi Kathleen--
I had exactly the same thing happen to me last year on the day my mom died. I had gotten a call from a cousin to tell me that my mom been taken to the ER in respiratory distress. Now, this wasn't unusual, as she had COPD and had to to to the ER once every 2 months or so. However, something that day told me I needed to be there. Fortunately, I paid attention and got to spend time with her before she went into cardiac arrest and passed away. You'll never regret paying attention to your intuition. :)
Posted by: Donna Gunter | October 13, 2009 at 01:09 PM
Kathleen, Please know the hearts of Lara and I are with you as you get to experience your father's transition. Please know you are blessed simply for being present at such a special moment in his life. Our prayers are with you and your family. In regards to your question I also subscribe to the belief in share what you are called to share. As a public figure this helps others to remember your humanness and your divinity all at the same time. I would never counsel someone to share the nitty gritty details of their life and yet this sharing has a lesson for all of us. You listened to your intuition and as I am sure you know your intuition will never steer you wrong. Thanks for the sharing and thanks for continuing to be an inspiration in my life.
NAMASTE
Robert Brzezinski R.Sc.P.
Posted by: Robert Brzezinski | October 13, 2009 at 01:10 PM