Freedom

I am clearing it all out.  Yes, the junk and even some of the good things.  You know that stuff that sits in your environment taking up space.  You bought it for some reason but now you can't remember why.  I am in the process of simplifying my life in every way.  I am looking through my house.  Every nook, every inch is being combed and re-evaluated.  I am keeping those things that truly bring my life enrichment and meaning.  The other things, I am letting go.

It is symbolic, I believe.  This process is a cleansing as much within me as it is outside of me.  The old energy, the remaining healing needing to be done, the pockets of anger and even shame--I am scrubbing my spirit as I do this outer ritual of realignment.

I feel as if burdens are being lifted and new energy is being found.  I sense that my vision is getting clearer as I move all blocks out of my spaces.  I am ready for new.  I am clearly stating to God that I AM READY.  I am willing to do my part, to take every step humanly possible in this moment and the next so that I am fully prepared for the next chapter.

How can the new enter if I have not been willing to clear the way for it?

That's what I have been up to.  How about you?  Ready for more freedom--both the inner and outer kind?  Perhaps it is time to let go of the inner and outer "stuff" that holds you back.  Start by noticing.  Yes, sit and just be in your spaces.  Look closely.  Become aware of what might be stuck.  Then, be willing to open to moving that which no longer serves you out of your life.  When you are truly ready, you will take the steps to do so.

Experiencing  more freedom,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Allow Your Dreams to Mature!

Last night I attended a family barbecue.  One of my cousins is pregnant, in her seventh month.  She is UNCOMFORTABLE!  Sleeping is difficult, walking is challenging--she is READY for this baby to be delivered.  Yet, she does NOT want the baby to come early.  Why?  Because in the last few months of the pregnancy, the baby develops and grows in important ways.  The entire nine months is crucial for the baby to be born vibrant and healthy. 

So, she patiently waits day by day until the baby is ready to emerge.

It is the same with our dreams.  Our dreams need development.  The ideas we have at the outset of our journey must go through the entire process of developing and maturing.  If born to early, they may not survive.  That is why we must trust the process of our personal and professional growth.

 Each stage, each step, each moment is essential on our path of progress. 

As an entrpreneur and visionary, I have BIG dreams and visions for life.  I've had them for years now.  I wanted them all to materialize rapidly.  But, I've found that I can't skip steps in my self development or the maturity of my vision.  I'm glad that it takes as long as it does.  I'm more prepared than ever for new phases of living my life vision AND my vision gets clearer and fuller by the day.

I have clients who are entrpreneurial and they have incredible plans for business and life pursuits.   Too often, they seem in a rush.  They want it to happen NOW.  In pushing for results, they often miss crucial opportunities to fully embrace and develop themselves in the stage they are in.  I encourage them to be patient, persistent and persevere. 

They will realize their potential and actualize their visions--but it happens over a period of time.

Don't be in too much of a rush o!  Be diligent today, where you are.  Take the key next steps with the resources you have right now.  If you stay focused on a consistent basis, you will achieve things you never imagined you could.  Just because you don't see the results yet, doesn't mean you should give up.  You are developing as a person.  You are learning important life and business lessons to help you get to the next stage of your plan. 

Open to the entire experience.  It is rich if you do.

Savoring the tiny steps of progress with you,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Cherish the Priceless

This Sunday our pastor asked that our entire congregration join in prayer for a family whose son has a brain tumor.  This four year old boy was rushed to Children's Hospital for an emergency surgery.  They did not know if he would survive the surgery or not.  He did.  Yet, his family is being told that he has very little time to live.

There was not a dry eye in the service.  We joined in prayer for peace and comfort for the family.

I've been sitting with this in my heart all week.  I have been taking the time to cherish the priceless gift of my daughters and my husband.  I am looking at them with fresh eyes--enjoying them with greater appreciation. 

I have come to this conclusion:  I could have all the money, the fame, the success but without a family to share this with, it would be empty.  And, if I don't have the money, the fame or the success but I have my family, my life would still feel full.

I ask this week that you look at the people in your life with new gratitude.  Look for the good in them.  Find the love and connection and grow it! 

It is truly love that brings a depth and satisfaction to life -- it's not the external "stuff" that does.

With love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: From Judgment to Understanding

The last week I have been observing the hurt and pain that is caused when human beings judge one another. 

The woman being judged is one of the kindest, most accepting people I have met.  Yet, several people in her life have judged her as "inadequate" and "incapable" of achieving her dream.  They don't see the countless hours she is alone in her office working.  They don't know and can't see the growth she has experienced through life's difficulties the past few years.  All they see is that from their perspectitve, she hasn't "made progress" in the way they think she should.

Here is what the woman expressed to me, her words fuelled by anger and said in a frustrated shout, "I don't understand.  I could judge them too.  I could find all their faults and shortcomings.  But I don't do this.  I look for their best.  I know they can change in the areas of their lives where they aren't doing well.  I don't dictate their future by focusing on their past.  I listen to them when they speak and try to understand their concerns.  I offer encouragement rather than judgment.  Why can't they do this for me too?" 

So the story goes -- judgment creates misunderstanding causes pain and hurt, destroys relationships and in the end, does nothing good for anyone involved in the situation.

I sat last night and imagined the situation differently.

What if each person in the situation were willing to expand their point of view, to look at the good in each other?  Couldn't they actively seek to understand their differences of perception?  Wouldn't the variety of cultures and ideas that each person has bring a richness of creativity if they were all able to talk calmly and lovingly to one another?

I know this could be possible.  The key shift needed would be for each person to move from judgment to a desire to understand. 

Instead, there is silence right now from the hurt each person feels.

My suggestion this week is to notice if you are judging people in your life.  Who do you see as inadequate?  Who do you think just isn't doing well enough?  Who has shortcomings?  Write the names of the people that have come to mind down on paper. 

For each of the people you have listed, answer this question, "What good can I find in this person?  In what ways is this person a fantastic human being?"  Jot your answers down.  Notice that you can find good anywhere you choose to.  The focus you have is always a choice.

Let's create a world where we offer understanding rather than harsh judgment.
After all, isn't that what you desire to receive from others in your life.
Give to others that which you long to receive.

With understanding,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: My Motto

Simple ideas can create revolutionary change.

My motto has become, "I do what I can, with the resources I have, where I am RIGHT NOW!"  I use this affirmation in all aspects of life. 

Each of us has the power to create positive change in our personal lives, in our professional lives and in our nations.  Yet, so often we get stuck thinking, "I just don't have enough money or time yet to make the personal change or the purposeful impact I want to make."  I'm here to tell you this week, you do have what is needed.

Think of it this way, sometimes the greatest transformations come from the smallest things -- shifts in thought patterns lead to radical life changes.  Often, a simple, loving act like listening to a friend can change the course of a person's life.  Sometimes a smile to a stranger can change the feel of their day.  Don't wait to create change.  Start today.

Do what you can.
Use whatever inner resources you have if you feel that your bank account isn't low enough to use your finances.
Start where you are with the people who are currently in your life.
Do it RIGHT NOW.  Yes, the call for taking action is TODAY!

Our assignment this week is twofold:

1.  Follow through and take the next daily step in the road to your personal transformation.  Make the phone call you know needs to be made.  Write your vision for your life down on paper.  Get your resume updated or get the business plan together.  You know you are ready for great changes so don't wait another day to do one small thing.

2.  Do something, some small thing with great love, to brighten another person's life.  If you want to use money to do so, great!  If not, get creative and show love in a cost-free high-impact way.  Who in your life needs some extra kindness?  Seek them out and offer them compassion today.

The small things done with great love add up to the lasting legacy of love we leave. 

Post this simple motto in a place you can see it each morning so that you remember the power you have!

With love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Keep Stepping Forward

Tonight I wrote close to 40 of my daily Food For Thought emails.  I've written over 1,000 of them in total the past few years.  It takes focus and persistence to do this every week for several years.  (My years of playing basketball taught me this type of self-discipline.)  I'm happy to write the emails.  I've written these emails during dark, difficult days.  I've written these emails during bright, exciting times.

I share this personal experience with you only to encourage you: follow your dream, offer your service and live your purpose no matter the highs or lows you are experiencing. 

I know it can feel challenging to keep going, especially in those days you feel stuck or you see no visible progress.  I've been there.  I still have those days.  But, I love the path I have chosen and I wake up each day and do my best. 

Sometimes my best is just one tiny move forward.  Other days I find myself running forward quickly.

Consistency is essential to fulfill your dreams.  So, keep at it!  Take that next little step to which you are guided.  If you can take a few more, then go for it! 

Your efforts will add up and pay off!

Believe in yourself.  Stay focused on your dreams.

With Love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Say What You Mean

Through some business interactions I've had this week, I am reminded of the importance of using our words wisely.  Too often people say things and do not really mean them.  They make commitments with no intention to follow through.  Yet, the only way we have to build trust in our relationships (business and personal) is to make good on what we say we will do.

Say what you mean!  Mean what you say!



A few simple examples:

• If you say you are going to call someone at a particular time, do so!  Be on time.  Show people you respect them by writing down your appointments and making sure you call.  If you can't call, give them advance notice that there is a complication and you need to reschedule.
• If you are working with someone on a project or hiring someone, don't make empty promises.  Only commit to what you know you can truly provide.  It is better to under promise and over deliver than to over promise and ruin a relationship.
• If you are having trouble meeting an agreement that is in place, it is best to communicate and let the other person knowin advance.  Hiding, ignoring a person's calls and emails and hoping the situation will go away is NOT a good way to handle your business.  Be courageous and honest.  In doing so, you will gain more respect and you open the door to understanding.
• If you don't know what you are able to commit to, then just simply say, "Let me think about what I am able to do. I don't know yet." It is better to go away and think about the situation before making empty promises.

Hope these ideas help you in your business and personal matters.
Be a person of your word.

With my love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Love is the Purpose

I've come to realize that no matter what job we have or what our "outer purpose" is in the world, LOVE is our true purpose.  Anything done in the spirit of love --whether laundry or cutting the lawn or greeting a stranger, picking up trash or being an executive in a boardroom--anything done in the spirit of love can touch lives deeply.

This week, my simple focus is love.  Perhaps, that is truly what my life focus is.  As I center myself in love, more and more I realize that anything I do can be infused with color and meaning.  I used to dread the daily trivialities of housework and paperwork and the nitty gritty tasks of dealing with life.  But now, as I bring love to it and have a joyful song in my heart, I even see the amazing aspects of these ordinary tasks.

Open to infusing love into everything you think, say and do.  It's a tall task, I know.  But, if you begin to do so, life will take on a whole new look and feel for you!

Writing this short blog post with my love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Loyalty and Collaboration

Keeping the blog short this week.  I will be honest and tell you I AM TIRED!

I've spent all week lost in the details of editing my manuscript.  I am finally in the last stages of layout and should soon get the first sample copy of my new book, Clarify Your Purpose and Live It!  I have learned a tremendous amount about book writing the last few years.  I'm so grateful for this experience.

I am feeling blessed today that I have such an amazing support system around me.  I have family that cares, friends that are understanding and helpful and business colleagues that are willing to collaborate.  So many people have played an essential role in bring this book idea to manifestation.

Creating a team of positive, empowered people is a helpful (even essential) foundation for success.  Take a look around your life.  How is your support team?  Are they draining your energy or lifting you up when you are down?  Do they collaborate and cooperate or are the people in your life out to compete against you, even sabotage your success?  Do you have people who come and go as they please or are do you have a team that is loyal and will go the extra mile?

Being surrounded by good people makes a tremendous difference in life.  If you feel that you need some new teammates, why not write a list of all the traits you are looking for in enhancing your "success team."

Writing this list will give you a clearer picture of what you are looking for. Then, don't be surprised as you begin encountering the type of people you were hoping to find. 

Wishing you a happy, successful, joyful week ahead!

with love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/



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Harness Your Power: The "List Exercise"

I thought I'd share with you this week a simple, but helpful practice I use on a daily basis.  It keeps me organized, helps me prioritize my work and it also assists me in letting go of my worries.

In the morning as I start my day, I write two lists.  The first list is all the "next steps" I am aware that I could take in reaching my goals and taking care of my responsibilities in my work and personal life.  The second list is a list for "My Project Manager" a.k.a. for God.  It is a list of all the issues, concerns and items that I feel are currently out of my control.  By putting them on paper I am consciously surrendering the worry and declaring to myself that I will be guided and directed in the resolution of each item on this list.

Sometimes I take a third step and write out a prayer.  This is a helpful way for me to express what is in my heart, how I feel about the successes and the challenges in my life and then, it allows me to release the burdens I am feeling.

I've been learning once again that spending time fretting over what is out of my hands only makes me feel sick inside.  When I relax and trust that every seeming issue finds a way to a good resolution, I feel better and keep more of my precious energy.

I wish you a happy, productive and peaceful week ahead.
Give the lists a try and let me know what you think!

With love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: What Are You Weaving?

I am almost done the entire manuscript for my book, Clarify Your Purpose & Live It!  I'm sooooo very excited to be so close to sharing it with you.  I love the topic of life purpose.  I have come to realize that the main purpose for each of us is LOVE.  In that light, I wanted to share a few thoughts with you on weaving a legacy of love into the lives of others.  I trust these words will get you thinking deeply this week.

What are you weaving?


The ancient Greek politician and statesman Pericles said, “What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”

So, what is it that you are weaving?

Take a close look at your interactions with others. I’d encourage you to answer each of these questions in writing.

Am I collaborating or competing?

Am I offering respect or discrimination?

Am I harmonizing or bickering?

Am I sharing or demanding?

Am I uplifting or criticizing?

Each of your thoughts, words and actions are the threads you weave.

Are you weaving something you are proud of? Is it that masterpiece you desire to be remembered for?

Each day is new and fresh. Each moment you have a choice of the impact you have on the people around you.

Embrace kindness, acceptance, compassion, understanding and giving and you are sure to make a tapestry that is splendid and leaves a lasting impression when your time on Earth is done!

Weaving a masterpiece with you,


Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.

www.patriciaomoqui.com

Harness Your Power: Enjoy Your Health

Last Tuesday night I received a call from my husband, "Trish, I am on my way to the emergency room, I broke my arm."  He had been playing soccer (futbol) with some friends.  His cleat got stuck in the ground and he fell in just the "perfect" way to break his left forearm in TWO places.   (Yes, that's him with my daughter Skye in this picture.  Believe me, he wasn't smiling like this when I saw him at the hospital!)

I called my mom, "Please, can you come be with the kids so I can get to the hospital.  David needs me." 

Thirty minutes later I was on my way to the hospital.  When I got there my husband was in the most pain I've ever seen him in.  His arm was dangling in front of him and was rather crooked -- bones were in directions they shouldn't be pointing.

After hours in the emergency room and x-rays, David was admitted.  Emergency surgery happened the following day.  The surgeon came and told me, "I love a good challenge and putting your husband's arm back together was a good one for me."  He was certainly passionate about his work, and I'm thankful for that.

Finally on Thursday evening I was able to bring David home. 

Life brings many unexpected challenges.  Watching the intense pain my husband has with every small movement made me extremely thankful for good health and a strong body.  We often don't value this enough. 

So, this week, I challenge you to notice how your body is working--wow...look at how those arms and wrists move.  Legs carry you along life's path each day.  Notice how many functions your body performs with any thought on your part!  Incredible!  Be thankful.  Nurture your body.  Pay attention if it tells you something is not working and get a physician to check you out if necessary.

Without a healthy body it is difficult to pursue our dreams or even enjoy the very basic, simple aspects of life.  Cherish what you have!  I had a moment of total love when I saw my husband after surgery...I was just SO THANKFUL it was only his arm that had been hurt.  I can't imagine life without him.

I give thanks for loving, supportive friends and family.  I appreciate surgeons, hospitals, and pain medications.  I am so thankful my husband is alive and that other than his arm, he is in great health.  I give thanks that all my bones are fully intact!  So many blessings, so many.

Much love and wishes for good health!

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Shifting Perceptions

My kids started a local summer camp this week.  At the camp is a young man who has a serious medical condition.  The young man walks and talks differently than the others. 

Skye, my 5 year old, came home and was laughing.  She told me about the boy and said he was funny looking.  Skye and I had a heart-to-heart talk.  I reminded Skye that God gives each of us a special body.  I asked her what it would feel like if someone laughed at her for how she looked.  She didn't say much in response but I could tell she was thinking.

At the end of the week Skye proudly announced to me, "Mom, I was really nice to him today." 

"Who, Skye?"  I asked.

She replied, "The boy who walks different than me."

"I'm so proud of you!" I exclaimed.

In one short week Skye's thinking had changed.  Her heart had opened and she was offering kindness rather than jeering.

Skye reminded me of the importance of loving others for who they are.  Each of us is created unique, special.

Let us take the time to see beyond the differences to the desire each of us has to be loved, accepted and seen for the remarkable being we are made to be.

I created a video about this last year...I think you might be inspired by it: 

New Vision: Love & Acceptance for All

Offering love to you for who you are :)

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Choose Peace

Peace has been my focus this week.  In the midst of uncertainty, I have learned that either I can be afraid of what's to come or I can choose to relax into the unknown.  I've been relaxing.  I've been affirming:  I am always guided.  I am clearly shown the best next steps on my path.

Life has a way of guiding us when we open our minds and hearts and trust.  I've seen this repeatedly in my life.  I have plenty of evidence of the unique twists and turns my path has taken.  So, in this time I am remembering how I always am supported and cared for even when the path ahead appears cloudy.

I've gone back to the basics of breathing deeply, stretching my muscles, taking a walk and connecting with nature.  I've looked at my children and focused on being child-like with them.  I keep coming back to THIS MOMENT and finding the enjoyment available to me now.

Hope these ideas help you in finding some peace this week.
You deserve to have peace NOW !!

With Love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Love & Spit Up

I'm sitting down on Memorial day evening.  I've gotten spit up on my shirt.  It's been an interesting holiday.

I had no idea that I'd have an extra baby living with me this weekend.   It was Love's calling.  A girl in my neighborhood who has a 10 month old son decided a week ago that she wanted to kick her drug addiction.  I was out of town on my book retreat when the text message came, "You told me that when I was ready to surrender and move forward that you and your family would help me.  I'm ready."  I was in awe.  This was truly miraculous. 

This text message kicked off a tremendous learning process for me and several family members.

There have been many ups and downs.  I've had moments of tremendous anger and sadness as she tried to run away and told me, "I'm taking my baby and I'm going to get high...I don't care what you think."  Then, hours later, after she and the baby sat in the pouring rain with no shelter, we received the phone call, "Please come get me.  I need help.  I need to get better."

We have had special moments too.  A few days into her withdrawal process she said, "I don't want to lose my son.  I want to get better.  I have to do this.  Thank you for helping me even when I have pushed you away."

Little did I know that this weekend I'd have baby boy with me.  Before entering a several month rehab program with her baby, this young lady was required to detox further under medical supervision and she couldn't bring her son.  Thus began our four day adventure.  I was given formula, wipes, diapers and clothes.

My children loved it of course.  Maggie and Skye enjoy playing mommy.  I've cherished it too -- though I must confess that it has been exhausting and has really got me to thinking.  What became clear to me is that when we offer love, we must be willing to go where love wants us to go and do what love needs us to do.  Sometimes this comes down to changing diapers, wiping up spit up and making sure another person's child is safe while they get better.

I honestly never would have thought that I'd be doing this.   I had planned to get an article written, to have time for relaxing and cleaning up the house.  The Universe always keeps me on my toes.  I am always surprised by how things turn out.

 I met this girl only nine weeks ago in my neighborhood.  I've been given a crash course in addictions.  I've learned that until a person is ready to surrender, until THEY WANT to get better, there is no stopping them from doing what they want to do.  I sat in the hospital one night after I got the news she had overdosed.  I went there prepared to hear the news that my friend had died.  But, she survived.

I write all this only to say that I have been reminded again that LOVE is patient, kind...it goes the extra mile, it does what it might not even want to do, it serves when and where it is called.  I'm being forced to live what I teach day in and day out.  I'm being stretched.  I'm growing in ways I never anticipated and being given crash  courses by the Universe on topics I never thought I'd be exposed to.

I pray often, "God use me in whatever way you need me today."  And God never allows a willing servant to go without an assignment :)  Perhaps God is chuckling lovingly at me while reading what I've written.

Let us all willingly follow where Love calls us. 

Written in love and with a prayer for my friend and for all addicts worldwide to find a way to freedom,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Flow with Life's Surprises

On Friday I boarded a plane to Dallas, TX.  This was to be the first stop on my journey to Albuquerque, NM.  We took off at 11 a.m.  Plane had already been delayed several hours.  While in flight we were told the Dallas airport was closed.  The pilot took us to Little Rock, Arkansas.  The airport didn't have any free gates open so we sat in the plane for four hours until the Dallas airport reopened. 

While sitting there for four hours, I had some great conversation with fellow passengers and chose not to look at my watch even once.  I reminded myself, "I will get there when I get there."

Finally we arrived.  I go to the American Airlines counter and I'm told, "All flights to New Mexico have been cancelled for the remainder of the day."  My mom and I are given a voucher for a local hotel and find our way there. 

To go with the flow or to fight with the reality of life?   It was all out of my control.  All I could do was choose a perspective that permitted me to experience peace and well-being during these unexpected changes to our schedule.

Friday we woke up, had breakfast and boarded a plane to Albuquerque.  At last we had arrived.  It was a relief and a joy to finally be to our destination.

I'm here in Albuquerque with the intention of finishing my first book.  I came here last October with the same intention.  I made great progress on my last trip but there was more that I needed to learn, ways I needed to stretch in order for the books to be fully written.

I will be honest and tell you that I have NEVER written a book.  It can feel daunting at times.  The self-doubt arises, "Trish, who are you to think you have a book to write and share with others?  You haven't done this so how do you think you know what it means to write a book?  What are you thinking trying to pull this off?"

This trip I have decided to put all self-doubt and fear aside -- the ironic thing is that is partially what my book teaches.  It's funny that writing a book on transforming your thinking forces the author to further transform her own :) 

I am enjoying the process.  I've decided to release all timetables and inner pressure to GET IT DONE.  Instead, I am spending the time in silence and stillness.  I'm swimming, walking and sitting in nature.  I'm resting when needed.  And, I'm opening my computer to write anytime I feel inspired.  One day, I am sure, this book will get done.

The cover is designed.  The graphic artist awaits the final text for interior design.  I remind myself, all things happen in God's time.  I surrender myself to this amazing process.  I never would have believed it could be tihs challenging.  Perhaps I never would have started it if I knew! 

So this week, why not GO WITH THE FLOW!  Enjoy the unexpected twists and turns on your path.  If you open to these moments rather than fight with them, you may find some wonderful life lessons and even a few joyful moments too.

Pay attention to your fear and self-doubt.  Why not see your power?  Why not understand the potential you have?  As you let go of these harmful thought patterns and open to seeing the good in yourself, you may find some amazing things come about -- who knows -- maybe YOU will be writing a book soon.

With all my love
Please say a prayer of inspiration for me this week :)

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Leave a Legacy of Love...

So, I poured my heart onto the page for a new article I wrote for my column in Vanguard Newspaper (Nigeria)...I am giving you a sneak peek this week...it came from deep within....

Fast forward again. On March 15, 2010, I receive word of another shocking loss.



Taking the braids out of my younger daughter, Skye’s, hair should be a normal experience, right? It wasn’t this time. These braids were special. They were put in by a 16 year old Sierra Lionian girl named Mattu. “Why is this a big deal?” you might ask. Let me explain.


Several months before, I had met Mattu at a local restaurant through a mutual friend. She noticed that my girls’ hair needed braiding and kindly offered her services. We accepted. This opened the door to a friendship that grew quickly into shared meals and enjoyable times together with Mattu and her brothers and sisters.


Mattu became dear to us. We were very sad when she told us she would be moving to Florida with her family. On her last evening in our neighborhood, she came over for dinner and braided Skye’s hair one last time. We bid the family goodbye comforted with the promise of her return to Philadelphia for a visit in the summer. That was Saturday, March 13th.


Then Monday I received a phone call, “Mattu is gone! She was hit by a car and killed instantly.” I felt total disbelief. My whole body went numb. “What? Are you sure? This can’t be true!” The reply was simple and somber, “Yes, it’s true.”


Last week I attended a memorial service given by friends of Mattu’s in the Philadelphia area. I was struck deeply by the words of the many who shared their memories with the group. Mattu had touched each of them with her joyfully vibrant spirit. She is remembered as a happy young woman who loved friends and food and shared everything she had with her mother and her siblings.


Just yesterday I unraveled the braids that Mattu wove in my daughter Skye’s hair. As I did I was smiling through tears remembering Mattu, still touched by her generosity.


As I move through my days these past few months I often feel surges of grief quieted by waves of joy. I am poignantly aware of the fragility and mystery of life. A beloved father joined his wife in heaven after 86 full years; a beautiful young woman was called home by God at age 16. Both are remembered for the greatest legacy anyone can leave. That legacy boils down to L-O-V-E.


What do you want to be remembered for? Don’t rush over this question. Contemplate it. Meditate on it. Open your heart. Why not be make a conscious decision about the way you will choose to live each day?


Life does not come down to who has the biggest house or the most expensive jewelry. It has little to do with the highest title or the fattest bank account. Rather, it comes down to simple acts of love. Each loving gesture is a deposit we make in the hearts of those we meet. A smile, a kind word, a prayer said on someone’s behalf, a meal prepared with care, time spent listening, laughing and sharing in meaningful conversation—any act of compassion or understanding makes a lasting impression.

....
I pray that these words have you thinking deeply about your purpose in life...Focus yourself.  Enjoy each moment.  Be YOUR best :)

Sending you love this week,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomqoui.com/

Harness Your Power: Share with Purpose

I find that the Universe brings the most unusual people onto my path to serve.  And, sometimes service comes in sharing the simplest things.  There is a girl I met in my neighborhood who has a small baby.  She needs food and encouragement.  As I've cooked this past week I made extra portions.  What joy this small offer of kindness and food brought to this young lady. 


I used to think that serving others meant doing big things.  But now, I am seeing that Mother Theresa was right -- it is small things done with great love that change our World.

I see that I can't take care of all the needs.  So I've been guided to investigate the many non-profit organizations in the area so that as people come into my life, I can connect them to the resources they need.  I am amazed at how many individuals and organizations care so deeply for the lives of others.  I am happy to be growing my network so that I can be part of sharing my time, energy and resources with purpose.

What small things are you being called to do for your family, friends and community?  You do have a calling.  Open your eyes this week and ask, "How can I serve?"  Be prepared.  You will be guided to simple ways to show love to others.  In doing this, you will receive so much joy in return.

Giving and receiving are truly the same thing!
In giving we receive.  In receiving we give the gift of accepting another person's desire to give.

With love for you as we share ourselves purposefully with the World,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: You are Provided For

I just had to share some of the amazing, synchronistic provisions I have been experiencing the last few weeks.  To start, I had been wanting to have a birthday party for my daughter, Skye, who turns 5 soon.  I went to pick her up at school and another mother told me she was just about to hand out the invitations for her son's birthday party.  We were talking about the expense of birthday parties and I said, "What would you think of doing a joint party and splitting the costs since they have the same classmates."  She replied, "That is a great idea!" 

So, with virtually no planning on my part, Skye is having a birthday party next Saturday with all her friends.  And, since we are splitting the costs, neither of us are spending much money!  Amazing.  I just chuckle in wonder at how God aligns my path even on these seemingly small life details.

Then, just today, I was out doing some shopping and I ran into a lady who I knew from my daughter's school.  We got to talking and she started telling me about what she does for work.  She works at a family center in our area and supports young mothers in learning how to help their children learn in the first few years of life.  It just so happened that I needed to meet a person like this so I could introduce her to a young mom I know who needs this EXACT type of support.  Again, no planning on my part.  I was just walking my path, open to the possibilities and the right people appeared!

It is just incredible to notice the countless ways in which we are provided for.  I am so grateful, so full of joy and peace because of all this evidence of how well I am cared for by the Universe.

Are you noticing all the blessings?  Are you celebrating the "coincidences" and synchronicities occuring in your life?  Pay attention -- you are probably having more of these than you are even aware of.

I send each of you love this week.
I'm here to support you in reaching your full potential and in feeling well.

Why not check out this video I made reminding you of the Free Resources of the Universe...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbRoL66sYr4 .

All my love,
Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
http://www.patriciaomoqui.com/

Harness Your Power: Flow, Flow, Flow

I mistakenly clicked on a link that caused a terrible virus to take over my computer.  As I type right now on another computer, my husband and his friend are working to correct the issue.  I pray that they are able to clean it out--because, I haven't backed up my writing files for two whole months.

I had an hour or so of deep inner grief this afternoon thinking about what I might have lost.  Then, I just had to laugh.  I have been working on not being "attached" to results and even to "stuff."  So, my attachment to my writing became clear this afternoon.  I released my grief and came back to peace knowing that all is well no matter the outcome.

I am learning to flow, flow, flow with life.  As I do I find it easier to grow, grow, grow in peace rather than in deep struggle.  Letting go and being surrendered is one of the most challenging lessons I have (and still am) learning.  Life keeps bringing me the PERFECT opportunities to learn.  My prayers for growth are always answered in the best ways. 

I attended a spiritual gathering this morning.    Maggie and Skye, my daughters, attended.  During the service the children went out and had a separate lesson.  They came back in and went to the stage.  They told us what they learned -- and this morning they talked about music.  Suddenly, Skye had a microphone in her hand and she had told the teacher she wanted to sing to the audience.  Tears rolled down my cheeks as my little girl (she will be 5 in April) stood fearlessly with a microphone and sang a verse of a Hanna Montana song!  Hmmm, perhaps not the most spiritual choice for a service like this, but she got a standing ovation from many in the crowd.  Of course I was on my feet cheering her on!

You just never know the opportunities that might be on your path this week.  So, glo with the flow and be fearless.  Stand up.  Share your gifts with the world.  I'll be glad to give you a standing ovation as you do.

With my love, with my prayer and with my encouragement to be your best,

Patricia Omoqui, The Thought Dr.
www.patriciaomoqui.com