Thursday, July 30, 2009

“WHEN THE STUDENT IS READY THE TEACHER APPEARS!"

By Shirley M. Carolan

How many times have I heard that tenet, or, given it lip service? Innumerable. July has turned out to be one of the most exciting months of my life. Every time I turn around another Aha moment manifests itself. I know there are no coincidences in the universe but as I’ve changed old habits, beliefs, and values to honor myself more, an article, book, seminar or CD has appeared talking about that very subject. It’s almost like a validation of my actions.

For example, last week I let go of something and some people who were very dear to me. Something triggered my taking a closer look at the relationship and I knew it had become toxic. I thought it would be painful parting ways but it was not, because I let them go with love.

I realize that everything in the universe is energy and we each vibrate at different energy levels. Sometimes we try to give a gift to a person vibrating at a different energy level from ours and that person cannot accept the gift because they do not see the value in it… alas, because they do not value themselves.

While I’ve purposely left names and events unsaid I trust you get the message. Our feelings are very important and should not be swept under the rug. Many years ago, in London, England, just after WWII, I attended a girls’ boarding school. I can vividly remember a lay teacher (Ms.Kelleher) telling me “I’m not interested in your feelings. I’m interested in your thoughts!” I was eleven years old at the time and have never forgotten her or her admonition. As a result, all my life I’ve stuffed my feelings and downplayed my skills and talents…

Hence, last week’s action on my part is a gigantic leap forward, a true act of faith! If you’d like to read a wonderful article that came across my computer yesterday, regarding “toxic relationships” by Maria Mar, then please go to David Riklan’s website at www.selfgrowth.com

Meanwhile, I’m still journaling on and celebrating other powerful Aha moments this month that are rapidly changing my life. I look forward to sharing these insights with you shortly.


Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Speaker ● Writer ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com

Copyright© 2009 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.

Thursday, July 02, 2009

OCEANSIDE SR. CENTER DEBUTS!

By Shirley M. Carolan

One of the perks of being a freelance writer is that I get to write about my community, Oceanside, California. This city, by the magnificent Pacific Ocean and breathtaking harbor, can now boast a beautiful new Senior Center. It is the second senior center in this growing populace.

Why am I raving about it so much? Because ever since I moved here from San Francisco, in 1997, I’ve heard about and waited for the “powers to be” to sanction it. I know, twelve years is not a long time for such a project to manifest. Others have waited far longer than I. But, I am very happy and grateful that it is now fait accompli!

The Grand Opening took place on June 6 and was presided over by Mayor Jim Wood, and councilman Mark Feller among others. Attendance was expected to be about 500 people but it must have reached at least 2,000!

It was a very festive occasion with a society band, folks dressed in exquisite evening attire and ladies in bejeweled evening gowns dancing to the sound and songs of the Big Band era! I was transfixed by memories of dancing to the Dorsey Brothers at the Waldorf Astoria in New York. Yes, that was my era, and I’m proud of it… when you could actually understand and swoon to the words being sung!

Why have I waited so long to report this happy event? I was lucky enough to capture two beautiful women dancing in all their finery. One was 93 years young, and dressed in a gorgeous black, bejeweled evening gown! The other, was dressed in a romantic lavender evening gown with exquisite hat. Unfortunately, I did not get their names and, not being a techie, I have been unable to get their photos uploaded to my website and blogs. But I will keep at it!

Meanwhile, I urge you to check out this wonderful new facility. It is located not far from my home, right off Oceanside Boulevard and Plaza del Oro, in the new Corozon complex. It boasts the latest in gym equipment, a fitness center, spacious classrooms, a grand cafeteria, which will serve hot meals come the Fall, computers, an outdoor patio for various events and, of course, a friendly and courteous staff!

It is well worth a visit when you are next in the area. I’d love to hear from you when you do!

Ciao!

Shirley M. Carolan, ATMG
Writer ● Speaker ● Artist
artistwithaflair@att.net
Phone/Fax: 760-732-0663
http://www.shirleycarolan.com
http://www.angelscross.blogspot.com
http://www.smcarolan.blogspot.com

Copyright© 2009 by Shirley M. Carolan. All rights reserved. To reprint any part of this article simply contact Shirley Carolan at artistwithaflair@att.net. Thank you.