The Power of Gratitude: Transforming Lives - Rachel Devine

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Rachel Devine 12/30/24 Rachel Devine 12/30/24

The Power of New Year’s Resolutions - Rachel Devine

The new year of 2025 is in a couple of days. Out with the old and in with the new. We celebrate the new year in various ways, and now we are possibly looking at our new year’s resolutions. You might be one of those people who doesn’t make resolutions because you have never been able to keep one in the past. This is exactly why you should make some resolutions. It will give you some practice in self-discipline. Resolutions are important to set goals and organize your new year in a way that navigates your future. Otherwise, one might just flounder in no particular direction and wind up in the same place as the previous year. Perhaps you want to lose weight or stop an addiction, or you might have lofty goals of starting a business or writing a book. Whatever your resolutions are, you can start now! This moment is all we have, and starting a new venture in the new year requires some forethought. After all, you want to have a truly happy new year!

Let’s look at this more closely.

New year’s resolutions

One of the most timeless traditions of the new year is making resolutions. These are promises that a person makes to themself for the purpose of self-improvement and positive changes, reflecting a shared aspiration to make a fresh start. A resolution can also be called a goal. When we have goals for our future, it gives us direction, purpose, and a feeling of wanting to accomplish something.

Starting a new year’s resolution

The first step to starting a resolution is to write it down. Your new year is an open book, and writing out goals will help you create a new chapter in your life. Writing down your resolution in a clear and concise way will give you a road map to your goal. You also want to write out the steps you will take to achieve your resolution. For instance, if you want to lose weight, you will write out a plan to change your eating habits to healthier ones, and you may want to incorporate a game plan for exercising. Studies show that exercising is associated with longevity. So, if you want to live a long, healthy life, it starts with a goal to get to that destination.

The Power of a Written Intention

The power of a written intention is very profound. One year I wrote a letter about where I wanted to see myself in a year, and everything I wrote came true. You can write out a similar letter or you can also put your goals on a vision board. A vision board is a visual of what you want for your future. You can use a piece of oak tag and put pictures on it of what you want to accomplish in your life. You can use phrases, affirmations, and stickers. You want to put your resolutions on the vision board and place the vision board where you can see it daily. The visions will get embedded in your subconscious mind, which is the driving force behind your life decisions. You will surely start to move in the direction of your goals, which is a great start to achieving them.

Visualization techniques

It’s so important to put some willpower behind the resolutions you set. Keeping your energy on the goal will be the most important part of reaching your objection. The mind-power techniques are invaluable. Visualizing techniques for manifestation, as if your goal is already here, is a powerful way to help you stay on course. Before you fall asleep each night, visualize the outcome of your resolution. For example, if you want to lose weight, fall asleep with only one picture of you already with the weight off. Then fall asleep with feelings of what it feels like to have the weight off. For instance, you would feel happy, healthier, content, relieved, etc. The feelings are what penetrate the subconscious mind, and the power of the mind to achieve goals is unlimited. I suggest you do this every night until you reach your goal.

Affirmations

Affirmations are phrases and words that help us change negative thought patterns to positive ones. Positive affirmations help us focus on the positive goals we have. Say affirmations out loud several times a day.

Some affirmations are as follows:

I will reach my goals.

I am happy to bring positive change into my life.

I am going in a good direction towards my dreams.

I am successful.

I am loved.

In closing, the new year is filled with so many possibilities. Writing your personal chapter for 2025 on what direction you want your life to go in, gives you control over your life. Your life is an open book with blank pages just waiting for you to fill them with some healthy goals and dreams. You have the power to create your future. Your resolutions are important, therefore, go in the direction that is ideal for you, and don’t let anyone sway you from your dreams.

I wish you all a very happy, blessed, and fun new year!

My new book is on Amazon now, Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment.

Rachel Devine is the author of her new inner child book, Discover the Power of the Secret Within, along with The Third Road and Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack, all on Amazon.

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Rachel Devine 12/17/24 Rachel Devine 12/17/24

JOY is an Inside Job - Rachel Devine

We hear people refer to it all the time: “the joy of Christmas.” Most people try to find joy outside of themselves in various ways, such as shopping, eating, being with friends, and a slew of other activities. And sure, these activities can invoke happiness, but they cannot invoke joy. Joy is an inside job.

The joy of Christmas does not come from a present or even a Christmas event. The joy of Christmas comes from the Spirit of God within. This spirit gives us joy beyond understanding and beyond anything the world can offer us. It is the joy of being connected to this Spirit that joy erupts from our being. It is the type of joy that, no matter what is happening in the outer world, the inner world is at peace and filled with joy.

In this profound story of St. Maximillian Kolbe, the beacon of joy is profound:

We hear people refer to it all the time: “The joy of Christmas.” Most people try to find joy outside of themselves in various ways, such as shopping, eating, being with friends, and a slew of other activities. And sure, these activities can invoke happiness, but they cannot invoke joy. Joy is an inside job.

The joy of Christmas does not come from a present or even a Christmas event. The joy of Christmas comes from the Spirit of God within. This Spirit gives us joy beyond understanding and beyond anything the world can offer us. It is the joy of being connected to this Spirit that joy erupts from our being. It is the type of joy that, no matter what is happening in the outer world, the inner world is at peace and filled with joy.

In this profound story of St. Maximillian Kolbe, the beacon of joy is profound:

The Story of St. Maximilian Kolbe - A Beacon of Joy in the Holocaust

St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Polish Franciscan friar, was known for his extraordinary act of self-sacrifice during the Holocaust. Arrested by the Nazis in 1941 for his anti-Nazi activities, Kolbe was sent to Auschwitz, one of the most infamous and horrific concentration camps.

In a tragic turn of events, after the escape of a prisoner from his barrack, the Nazi guards decided to punish ten men by starvation. Among those selected was Franciszek Gajowniczek, who cried out for his family. In an act of profound love and courage, Kolbe volunteered to take his place, saying, "I am a Catholic priest from Poland; I would like to take his place, because he has a wife and children."

Despite the dire circumstances, Kolbe's spirit remained unbroken. He continued to minister to the other prisoners, offering them comfort, hope, and spiritual guidance. His joy was not from the external world but from his deep faith and commitment to his beliefs. Even in the starvation bunker, Kolbe was reported to have led prayers and hymns, maintaining a demeanor of peace and joy that contrasted sharply with the surrounding despair.

Kolbe's life ended when, after two weeks, he was one of the last to survive, leading to his execution by lethal injection. It was reported that as he was led to his death, he had a calm glowing spirit of peace radiating from his face, which was from his inner faith. His sacrifice allowed Gajowniczek to survive the war, and Kolbe's story became a powerful testament of love and resistance against hate.

The joy Kolbe exhibited was not one of happiness from circumstances but a profound inner peace and love for God and humanity, shining through even in the darkest moments of human history. This joy was rooted in his unwavering faith, making his story not just one of martyrdom but of a joyful witness to the power of love and sacrifice. In 1982 he was canonized a saint in the Catholic Church.

***

Of course, most of us will never achieve the type of joy and unbroken spirit as Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Nonetheless, just to be aware of the fact that our inner joy comes from our faith in God is enough to carry us through life, as we wallow in the notion of unwavering joy. And to truly know that outside influences have no power of you, unless you let it. Because joy is truly an inside job.

Some ways to achieve inner joy would be through prayer, meditation, peaceful music, sacred reading, nature and gratitude practice. Staying focused on gratitude each day is such a profound way to appreciate life and all that you have and in doing so your inner world starts to respond with much peace. Instead of looking at what is lacking, appreciate all that you have. Of course, going to your place of worship is another way to find joy and inner peace. Joy is something that builds over time. The more you nourish it, the more it will grow. The key is to nourish it daily.

Christmas, or the sacred birth of Christ, is the focus for pure joy. It’s really not about the outer part of Christmas, the joy comes from the inner Spirit of our Lord and Savior that resides in each and everyone of us.

Wishing all of you a very blessed and Merry Christmas and for those who celebrate Hanukkah, a very blessed and Happy Hanukkah.

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Rachel Devine 12/11/24 Rachel Devine 12/11/24

The Connection (A Christmas Story) Rachel Devine

The Christmas season is upon us and it is a time of giving, a time of the birth of Christ.

I wrote this short story with the goal of capturing the Christmas Spirit. It is one of the short stories in my new book, Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment, which is now available on Amazon!

So, sit back, grab a cup of hot chocolate, coffee or tea and enjoy this special short story:

The Christmas season is upon us and it is a time of giving, a time to focus on the birth of Christ.

So, sit back, grab a cup of hot chocolate, coffee or tea and enjoy this special short story:

The Connection (A Christmas Story)

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus - Matthew 22:39 NKJV

She brushed the snow off her gray wool coat as she hurried into her apartment building. She made her way up the three flights of stairs to her apartment. She could smell the freshly baked scent of sugar cookies filling the air as she guessed this delightful scent was coming from Mrs. Granger’s apartment. Christmas was tomorrow, and she felt the holiday spirit all around town. Mr. Linden, the butcher, had given her an extra piece of ham as he made jovial small talk in his tiny store. Mrs. Jennings, her close neighbor, offered her a warm knitted scarf as a gift for this festive holiday. And a warm thought crossed her mind, as she remembered being in church the past Sunday and the pastor giving out sugar canes to the children.

She unlocked the door to her small railroad flat and hurried inside. It was warm as the pipes hissed the sound of heat coming into the flat. She took off her wool coat and her hat and glanced into the foyer mirror. Her long blond hair was ruffled, and she could see that her blue eyes looked tired. She had just passed her thirty-first birthday with a big party her parents had given her. It was a festive party, with relatives, birthday cake, and presents. She was truly blessed. Now all she had to do was find a husband, and her life would be complete, she thought as she made a pout smile into the mirror as it reflected back at her. She giggled to herself like a child as she thought about tomorrow and the kinship she felt with her family.

Yes, it was a special time of year. Tomorrow morning, she would gather up the small gifts for her parents and visit them for a special turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Her mother always made Christmas very special, and since Mary was a little child, she had fond memories of many wonderful holidays. Her mother would no doubt have those special chocolate candies—the ones with delightful white sprinkles.

Then a sudden thought of sadness rushed through her mind. What about those who can’t afford Christmas? What about those families who are having hard times? She had heard that many families were going to gather at the food kitchen on Bleeker Street for their Christmas dinner. She prayed the butcher and other storekeepers were especially charitable to those folks. She knew, however, that this was all in God’s competent hands and that such matters were better left to the “Big Boss.”

Mary felt very fortunate. She had a decent job at Kaufman's law firm, assisting the owner, a roof over her head, and food on the table. Many were not as fortunate as she was. ‘What could she do to help those in need?’ she thought. She truly wanted to help those who were not as fortunate as she was. After deep contemplation, Mary decided to go out to the food kitchen at the other end of town and see if she could help in some way. She went to her cupboard and saw that it was sparsely stocked. But nonetheless, Mary grabbed a jar of strawberry preserves her mother had given her, dropped it into a bag, grabbed her wool coat, her scarf, and her hat, and darted out the door and ran down the three flights of stairs.

She hurried outside and into the snowy, cold air as she made her way through the cobblestone street to the trolley car that just happened to stop simultaneously as she stepped onto the curb. She made her way in and noticed an old man stooped over, barely able to hold onto the trolley pole, as it made its way through the snowy cobblestone streets. She couldn’t help noticing he had a terrible, disgruntled look on his face. His black tattered coat was well worn but clean, and his boots looked as if they saw better days. He did, however, seem to have a new black scarf wrapped around his neck. He was mumbling about needing to get to the general store before the store closed, making hand gestures as he thought out loud. She thought it was odd that this elderly man is brave enough to confront the elements to get to the general store on Christmas Eve. And she thought she heard the word preserves, but she might have been mistaken. ‘He must really need food, and maybe he is poor and lonely,’ she thought.

At that very moment, her eyes met his. They were dark, lonely eyes that spoke to her. She could see the pain of years of loneliness. She could also see in his eyes the glaring power of a worried look. He has seen very hard times in his day, she thought. Mary had a gift, the same one her father had, where she could read people's eyes—not all the time, but most times. She could tell this man was not happy. She smiled warmly at him, hoping that he would feel the spirit of the season, and for a brief second, a wry smile appeared on his face and then disappeared as he made his way off the trolley.

Mary decided to follow him to the general store and see what he needed. Maybe she could help one individual tonight instead of going to the food kitchen, where people were sure to be helped. She didn't have that much money on her, maybe twenty cents, but that did not deter her from her charitable mission.

She hurried off the trolley and made her way towards the general store, on a mission of mercy. She felt the icy-cold wind sting her face and the stone cold pavement against her boots. She was happy to step into the store, where it was warm and dry. She watched as the old man made his way around the store, and she saw him pick up a few items. He put a small ham on the counter, along with bread and a jar of strawberry preserves. ‘It looked as if he would have bread and preserves for Christmas breakfast and ham for dinner—a sparse breakfast indeed,’ she thought.

The storeowner, a burly-looking man, made some small talk with the elderly man as he announced that the total of his purchase was forty cents. The man put his hand in his pocket and pulled out thirty cents. “You are ten cents short,” announced the storeowner, who did not seem to have a charitable bone in his body. “Times are hard for all of us,” he continued. “I could give you credit, but you already owe me twenty cents from your last purchase. I am sorry.” The elderly man looked embarrassed and upset as he decided to put the strawberry preserves back on the shelf.

Mary could not believe what was happening as she reached into her bag and handed the man the jar of strawberry preserves. “Please take this,” she said. “It is my gift to you for Christmas.”

The elderly man looked quite puzzled, and for an awkward moment, there was silence. He then responded by asking her, “Dear lady, who are you, and do you always walk around with a jar of strawberry preserve in your bag?” The man seemed very confused.

“No, actually, I was on my way to donate it to the food kitchen, but I found a better use for it, so please take it,” Mary replied.

The man was puzzled by this sudden turn of events and felt as if something much more important was taking place at this very moment in time. He felt a warm spirit of generosity, and it was piercing his heart with much comfort. He was reluctant to accept the gift, but he looked into the young lady's eyes and could see that it meant more for her to give the gift than it meant for him to receive it. He could read her heart; it was a gift.

After a few uncomfortable, silent seconds, the elderly man smiled and said to Mary, “Dear lady, I will accept your gift and say thank you. This is very kind and generous of you. Merry Christmas, and God bless you.”

Mary felt this sudden feeling of luminescence fill her heart with joy, and she gave a silent thank you to God for this glorious encounter. She smiled warmly at the elderly man and chanted, "Merry Christmas to you, and may God bless you abundantly."

The elderly man walked out of the store with a look of bewilderment on his face. Mary turned to the storeowner and said, "Here is the twenty cents the man owes you.” He looked at her, scratched his head, took the money, and walked to the back of the store, where a woman was beckoning him to come and help her with her purchase.

Mary walked out of the store feeling the spirit of Christmas all around her, but most of all within her soul. Her heart was filled with God’s peace and joy. ‘This was what Christmas was all about,’ she thought as she got back on the trolley car. It was about giving, caring, and sharing. It was about love— the kind of love that is unconditional for all of humanity, not just family and friends. It was about being human.

She knew she would probably never see this old man again. She didn’t even know his name, but she did know that the two of them connected in a spirit of generosity and kindness tonight on this special Christmas Eve, and no matter what happens in her lifetime, that will always carry around in her heart.

Get your copy of Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery now on Amazon.

Rachel Devine 12/3/24 Rachel Devine 12/3/24

Save the Date: Weekend Getaway - Letting Go: Embrace a New Beginning.

Save the date of April 25-27 2025. I will be sending out full details in the beginning of January, at which time I will open up the registration on my website.

We are having a new weekend getaway next year called, Letting Go: Embrace a New Beginning. The team and I are planning a great weekend, with lots of time to relax and enjoy the grounds. We are fortunate to have secured a weekend at Cormaria in Sag Harbor. A lovely retreat house, 1/4 mile away from the town of Sag Harbor that sits right off the beach with majestic ocean views and old world charm. There is also a 5 star chef that does all the cooking for the retreat house.

Save the date of April 25-27 2025. I will be sending out full details in the beginning of January, at which time I will open up the registration on my website.

If you have any questions, please send me an email or use my contact form.

Additionally, I wanted to tell you that my new book, Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment is available on Amazon. It makes the perfect holiday/Christmas gift!

Wishing all of you a very blessed holiday season and a very Merry Christmas!

Rachel Devine 11/25/24 Rachel Devine 11/25/24

A Thanksgiving Message: Rachel Devine

It’s almost Thanksgiving, and most people are looking forward to gathering around family for a meal and fellowship. Being grateful for our family is a gift. Treasure the people you will spend time with this Thanksgiving.

On the other hand, they have had a falling out with a relative or two and are not looking forward to the festivities. There are a lot of folks who are left out in the cold, not invited, or have no place to go because of some kind of conflict in the family circle. It can be a tough time of year for some of us struggling with this. Furthermore, the innocent bystanders are also in conflict when a family member is not invited into the fold. They have to endure the absence of the person that is not invited, and that could put a strain on the gathering as well.

There are no easy answers that come to mind, except forgiveness. Forgiveness is at the forefront of any conflict and is more for the person that offers it rather than the one who receives it. Forgiveness is an act of self-love, liberating one from the resentments that hold them hostage. Forgiveness is part of our Christian faith. Jesus warns us in the following Bible verse:

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

On the other hand, some people have had a falling out with a relative or two and are not looking forward to the festivities. There are a lot of folks who are left out in the cold, not invited, or have no place to go because of some kind of conflict in the family circle. It can be a tough time of year for some of us struggling with this. Furthermore, the innocent bystanders are also in conflict when a family member is not invited into the fold. They have to endure the absence of the person that is not invited, and that could put a strain on the gathering as well.

Matthew 6:14-15

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

This Thanksgiving, look into your heart and see if forgiveness can open up a time for thankfulness for family and friends. Life is too short to hold grudges and keep you stuck in a place of resentment. Remember, resentment is like taking poison and expecting the other person to die. The choice on how to proceed this Thanksgiving, of course, is yours.

This short story is priceless on forgiveness:

The Last Letter

In the small town of Eldridge, where everyone knew everyone else's business, lived two neighbors, George and Tom. Their feud was the stuff of local legend, stemming from a dispute over a property line more than thirty years ago. It had escalated to the point where neither spoke to the other, and their families followed suit.

George, a widower with a heart now hardened by time and bitterness, spent his last days in a quiet, resentful solitude. Tom, on the other hand, had attempted reconciliation over the years, but George's pride was a fortress too high to breach.

One chilly autumn day, George found himself reflecting on his life, the emptiness in his heart echoing louder than the silence between him and Tom. He realized that his stubbornness had cost him not just a friend but a part of his life's joy. With his health failing, George knew time was not on his side. He penned a letter. It wasn't long or eloquent, but it was sincere:

"Tom,

I've spent too many years hating you. I'm tired. I hope you can forgive an old fool for his pride. Maybe we can share a coffee one last time. George."

With a trembling hand, he sealed the letter and placed it on Tom's doorstep at dusk, unsure if it would change anything but feeling a weight lift from his chest.

The next morning, Tom found the letter. His heart ached with the years lost to anger. He walked over to George's house, letter in hand, and knocked. There was no answer, but the door was slightly ajar. He entered to find George asleep in his armchair, a peaceful expression on his face, the kind you see on someone who has finally laid down a heavy burden.

Tom sat beside him, tears streaming down his face, not just for the lost years, but for the forgiveness that had come too late. He held George's hand, cold but now unclenched, and whispered, "I forgive you, my friend. I wish we had more time."

From that day, Tom made it a point to share stories of George with anyone who would listen, not of their feud, but of the man who, in his final act, sought peace. The story of George's letter became a lesson in the town, a reminder of the power and necessity of forgiveness, even if it comes at the last moment.

End of story.

Wishing all of you a very blessed Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, love, and family.

My new book, Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment on Amazon now. There is a chapter called, A Thanksgiving Lesson, that I am sure you will enjoy.

Get your copy now on Amazon.

Rachel Devine 11/19/24 Rachel Devine 11/19/24

Excerpt: Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment - Rachel Devine

TNew York, NY USA October, 2024, KDP Independent publishing, Rachel Devine

Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment

My new book is now on Amazon, just in time for the holidays! What could be a better gift than a book that will transport you into an oasis of fantasy, drama, hope, love and discovery? When you give the gift of a book, you give the wonderful joy of escaping into a delightful world of endless possibilities.

Short stories have been around for centuries. Some famous novelists stem from George Saunders, Charles Dickens, Washington Irving, Louisa May Alcott, and so many more. One can slip into the 1800s in one story and, in another story, zoom into the future. Short stories can be mysterious, spiritual, or filled with love.

Short stories have a way of making one scrutinize their own life. The light that radiates from these short stories will overcome the darkness in the world. Imagine walking around in a dark room, bumping into furniture and walls, and getting hurt as you navigate in the dark. Now, flip a switch and turn on a light, and the room is now warm, inviting, and easy to navigate. Short stories have an uncanny ability to shine a bright light on our lives, which overcomes the dark areas.

Each story is designed to be enlightening in some way. They are written with a sense of having a profound spiritual message. The value in each story is the ability to land on a learning experience, which will resonate with the reader in some way. The stories are also designed to transport you into the story, where your imagination can soar. My stories will take the reader out of an uncertain world and into a world of endless possibilities. In a world of so much calamity, one thing is certain, a short story takes you into a safe world, where you can find a reprieve from life for a little while.

One thing is undeniable: these short stories offer hope, love, and a sense of discovery.

Therefore, I suggest you make yourself a cup of tea or coffee, settle into your favorite chair, and immerse yourself in these delightful and enlightening stories.

Order your ebook for an instant download.

Just in Time for the Holidays: Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery is now available on Amazon! What could be a better gift than an inspirational book that will transport you into an oasis of fantasy, self-awareness, hope, love, and discovery?

Dive into Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery, where each story not only entertains but also illuminates the human spirit. Following in the footsteps of literary giants like Langston Hughes and Alice Munro, this collection of short stories is filled with profound messages of hope. One can slip into the 1800s in one story and, in another story, go back 38 years with a nostalgic theme.

These stories are crafted to not only entertain but also encourage introspection, offering a mirror into one's own life experiences. The light that radiates from these short stories will overcome the darkness in the world. In a world often clouded by darkness, Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery acts as the beacon, illuminating paths we never knew existed.

Each tale weaves a narrative that not only captivates but also enlightens, offering a profound spiritual message wrapped in compelling storytelling. The value in each story is the ability to land on a learning experience, which will resonate with each reader in a different way. The tales are also designed to transport you into the story, where your imagination can soar. These tales will take the reader out of an uncertain world and into a world of endless possibilities. In a world of so much calamity, one thing is certain: a short story takes you into a safe world, where you can find a reprieve from life for a little while.

One thing is undeniable: these short stories offer hope, love, and a sense of discovery.

So, pour yourself a cup of tea or coffee, settle into your favorite chair, and let 'Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery' transport you to unique worlds where hope, love, and discovery take center stage.

A short excerpt from a chapter called, The One:

Abby was struggling with dating. After 20 years of marriage, she now found herself divorced and floundering in the precarious world of dating.

“Where are all the good men?” Abby blurted out loud to herself. After two years of endless dates, she was wondering if her ‘prince charming’ even existed. However, she was not going to give up. At 47 years old, Abby was doubtful about ever meeting a good partner. Abby looked in the mirror at her long, brown, wavy hair and big blue eyes as she stood there tall and slim. ‘Why can’t I meet a good man?’ she thought with conviction.

Abby started to do an inventory of her life; she was happy. She was definitely happy in her occupation as a teacher. Her grown daughter was married to a wonderful man, and they just bought a house. She did have her dog Luke, a Siberian husky, to fill in the voids of feeling lonely, and that was a blessing to Abby.

Abby was reading a book on relationships and was up to the middle of the book. She was trying to wrap her head around the idea of her childhood experiences being the culprit for her relationship woes.

She thought with conviction, ‘The way I learned to love in childhood is how I will navigate adult relationships. To go one step further, I will attract men accordingly. Wow, that was a lot to resonate with.’

She started to review her childhood as a middle child. The forgotten middle child syndrome is very real. She was able to get attention from her parents by doing good deeds for them, like offering to do the dishes for her mother and offering to shine her father’s shoes. This gave her attention, praise, and love. As an adult, Abby realizes that love should be unconditional. As a child, she should not have had to earn love and attention.

As she reviewed her marriage, she realized that she did create her childhood in her marriage. She married a clone of her father, who was a workaholic. She tried to keep her ex-husband engaged in the marriage by doing good deeds for him in order to get attention. She would make elaborate dinners and buy him gifts, all in an effort to get him to engage in the relationship and lure him away from his addiction to his work. Her husband was always working, and Abby was very lonely in the marriage.

Now fast forward to her dating life, where Abby is meeting the same type of men as her ex-husband with a different face, over and over and over again. Men who are emotionally distant and in need of coaxing to engage in any meaningful relationship.

As Abby continued to read the book, she realized she had to change this inner dialogue. The patterns from her past were embedded in her subconscious mind, and this was why she was continually meeting the same type of man as her ex-husband. Abby was fascinated by this theory and wanted to break out of this childhood pattern. The book went on to show her, step by step, how to clear this childhood pattern from her subconscious mind so she could meet the man of her dreams.

She had to write a letter to her ex-husband thanking him for all the lessons she learned in the marriage and then ceremoniously burn it in the sink as she released this from her subconscious mind. It was a way to clear the channels and let the universe know that she learned the lessons she needed to and would move on now. She could clear the channels so she didn’t have to repeat the lessons she already learned in her marriage. Abby did this ritual and felt lighter after the letter was burned.

The next step was that she had put up a visual picture in her mind of the man of her dreams as she fell asleep. She had to resonate with loving thoughts of this man and a feeling of harmony and compatibility. According to the book, this would put a positive image in her subconscious mind and would help her attract a suitable partner. The book went on to say that if she resonates with the feelings, this would help her create her destiny. Apparently, the feelings are what penetrate the subconscious, and the subconscious mind directs 95% of our lives! Abby was a little skeptical of this whole process but was open to giving it a try. So, for the next few weeks, she fell asleep with the feelings of being in love and meeting a compatible partner, as she put one image of this new partner in her head.

On day 21 of doing this nighttime ritual, she decided to go to a singles dance with some girlfriends. She needed to be out in the single world to test this theory of meeting an ideal partner. Abby put on her best dress and headed out to the dance. She felt silly thinking that she could manifest a partner into her life, but nonetheless, she was still open to it.

As she was driving to the dance, an old song came on the radio that made her think hard about manifestations.

The song was called I Knew I Loved You by Savage Garden. Sung by Darren Hayes.

Abby sang along with the song:

“Maybe it's intuition.

But some things you just don't question.

In your eyes, I see my future in an instant.

And there it goes.

I think I found my best friend.

I know that it might sound

More than a little crazy, but I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you. I think I dreamed you into life.

I knew I loved you before I met you. I have been waiting all my life.

There's just no rhyme or reason.

Only the sense of completion

And in your eyes

I see the missing pieces I'm searching for. I think I've found my way home.

I know that it might sound

More than a little crazy, but I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you. I think I dreamed you into life.

I knew I loved you before I met you. I have been waiting all my life.”

Abby must have heard this song a hundred times in the past, but tonight the lyrics resonated with her in a way she could not begin to explain. She was stunned that this song of manifesting love was playing as she drove to the dance, especially the part where it says, “I think I dreamed you into life!”

The end of the excerpt.

To complete reading this short story, you can get an instant ebook download or order my book on Amazon. In closing, I want to say that as a local and self-published author, most of my sales are from networking and word of mouth and I thank those who promote my books. And this new book on short stories is the perfect Christmas gift, as I do have a chapter called The Connection (A Christmas Story) that conveys the true meaning of Christmas. Look for an excerpt on this chapter next week. And I want to thank you in advance for your support.

Devine Intervention - The Healing Center website.

Rachel Devine 11/14/24 Rachel Devine 11/14/24

Your Actions Speak Louder than Words! Rachel Devine

The old adage advises that "actions speak louder than words." This adage holds a great deal of wisdom. While people may convey one message verbally, their behaviors, conduct, and decisions often provide a truer measure of character, values, and motives. If you really want to know what the other person's motives are, don't listen to their words, but look at what they do. Examining actions yields true insight beyond what any declaration of words will convey. In fact, some might say words are not as important as actions are in many life circumstances.

Let’s explore this concept of, your actions speak louder than words.

Let’s explore this concept of your actions speaking louder than words.

Words Fall Short

People have a tendency to project an idealized self to others that aligns with what they wish were true or think it sounds noble. In other words, their ego is playing into the situation. Keeping a steady eye on your words is key to aligning them with your actions. However, aligning conduct with projected character requires self-awareness and effort. Talk is cheap without a walk to back it up.

As leadership expert Simon Sinek noted, "Leadership is not about the words you say. It's about the actions you take." Actions demonstrate true leadership.

Personal Action

If you are telling yourself, I will one day start a business, lose weight, or write a book, and you are not taking steps to fulfill these dreams, then you would also fall into the category of a person who is not putting action behind words. Words are easy; it’s the action that is more of a challenge. The real power comes when you align your words and actions together. It really will help you feel more empowered when you become a person who keeps your word to yourself and others. It is especially important to be a role model for your children. Therefore, it is critical to really look at what you say versus what you do and see if you can get them to line up together.

Actions vs. Words

There are countless examples of how individuals' actions contradict their words. Here are a few examples:

Politicians espouse concern for the downtrodden but further the interests of their donors.
Social activists condemn pollution but don't curb their own consumption.
Celebrities promote a positive image, while some are guilty of intense dysfunction.
Some proclaim, "I am on a diet." And the next day, order a burger and fries.
A boyfriend may say, "I love you," but not really spend much time with you.
A parent may tell their child not to lie, and then in the course of another conversation tell a white lie.

Remember, children are more impacted by our actions, not our words. And integrity does reap trust and moral values, which parents want to instill in their children. A closer look at this type of behavior tells us that some people are just not aware of the inconsistent way they act, and some prioritize their own agenda when given the choice to walk the talk. But alignment between actions and words determines integrity. Awareness is the key to changing our bad habits into good ones. There are plenty of ways to transform your life to one that helps you become more in sync.

Benefits of Aligning Words with Actions

Reveal true character: actions reflect values, compassion, priorities, and substance.
Builds trust: saying one thing while doing another destroys trust. Alignment demonstrates dependability and promotes trust.
Enables correction: Catching inconsistencies provides the opportunity to realign values and conduct.
Improves credibility: talking purposefully and acting upon it brings credibility to your character.
Lights the path: When words and deeds synergize, you're heading in the right direction, and it helps your spirit grow with grace.
It is also beneficial in where you work, in order to get good reviews and be promoted.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say." Before speaking loftily, ensure your feet are on the ground. Character is constructed step by step by our words and actions.

Louise Hay tells us:

"The point is to take the actions that match your words."

In order to create the future you would be proud of, it’s so important to be aware of how your actions line up with what you say.

The trust bestowed upon leaders, role models, friends, and influencers arises in large part from the integrity of their principles demonstrated on a day-to-day basis in their actions aligning with their words. While words may inspire, actions forge lasting impact. Consistency in both words and actions creates trust. Be a person who walks the talk rather than talks the walk.

I will conclude with this priceless quote, which I just love.

"Better done than said."
Frank Sonnenberg

Rachel Devine’s new book, Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery is a collection of short stories, and it’s now on Amazon. Also by Rachel, The Third Road, a book that gently guides one to the power within and their purpose in life, and Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack, a spiritual book on dating and relationships.

Life Coaching available

Please leave your ideas in the comments. Or please also feel free to contact me. I will answer all emails.

Rachel Devine 10/31/24 Rachel Devine 10/31/24

Press release - Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment - Rachel Devine

TNew York, NY USA October, 2024, KDP Independent publishing, Rachel Devine

Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment

One thing is undeniable: these short stories offer hope, love, and a sense of discovery.

Therefore, I suggest you make yourself a cup of tea or coffee, settle into your favorite chair, and immerse yourself in these delightful and enlightening stories.

Get your copy now on Amazon.

Order your ebook for an instant download.

Press release: New York, NY USA October, 2024, KDP Independent publishing

Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery: A Collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment, Rachel Devine

Just in Time for the Holidays: 'Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery' is now available on Amazon! What could be a better gift than a book that will transport you into an oasis of fantasy, drama, hope, love, and discovery?

Dive into 'Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery,' where each story not only entertains but also illuminates the human spirit. Following in the footsteps of literary giants like George Saunders and Charles Dickens, this collection of short stories is filled with profound messages of hope. One can slip into the 1800s in one story and, in another story, zoom into the future.

These stories are crafted to not only entertain but also encourage introspection, offering a mirror into one's own life experiences. The light that radiates from these short stories will overcome the darkness in the world. In a world often clouded by darkness, 'Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery' acts as the beacon, illuminating paths we never knew existed.

Each tale weaves a narrative that not only captivates but also enlightens, offering a profound spiritual message wrapped in compelling storytelling. The value in each story is the ability to land on a learning experience, which will resonate with the reader in some way. The tales are also designed to transport you into the story, where your imagination can soar. These tales will take the reader out of an uncertain world and into a world of endless possibilities. In a world of so much calamity, one thing is certain: a short story takes you into a safe world, where you can find a reprieve from life for a little while.

One thing is undeniable: these short stories offer hope, love, and a sense of discovery.

So, pour yourself a cup of tea or coffee, settle into your favorite chair, and let 'Tales of Hope, Love, and Discovery' transport you to unique worlds where hope, love and discovery take center-stage.

A short excerpt from a chapter called Seize the Moment:

You greeted the day with your usual tunnel vision. Perhaps you had breakfast, got dressed, and darted out in a big rush to get to work. While driving to work or maybe walking to the train, your mind was preoccupied with the day's tasks. Your brain was saturated with a long to-do-list. Upon arriving at work, you tackled the mounting emails while half-greeting colleagues. The nagging feeling of unfinished work pressured your entire day until you buried your head in your work. And before you knew it, the day was gone. The next day’s routine is a repeat of today, like a train barreling down the tracks at high speed.

Sure, you must make a living and plan your day; however, did you realize what you missed in your hurried pace this morning? You missed the magnificent, multicolored skyline outlined by God's majestic artistry. God placed a rainbow in the sky for you. You also missed seeing the most amazing little cardinal perched on the tree outside your home. And you overlooked that dime on the sidewalk. You missed the smile from a stranger as you hurried on your way. You didn't feel the incredible warmth of the sun on your face or notice the daffodils bursting upon the earth in the early morning. You didn't see the buds on the trees bloom into magnolia blossoms, a gift from God. You missed the grass coming back to life after a long hibernation. You didn't notice the most amazing oak tree with its leaves bursting with new life.

You also missed the incredible feeling of oneness, which can only be felt in that holy moment.

You actually missed the moment—the very place where the power of God resides in everything you do. You missed the opportunity to feel the amazing Spirit of God that surrounds and lives within you. You actually missed a beautiful spring morning. Remember, you can't have this day back. It's tucked away in the past, fading into your memory…

American Psychological Association on food addictions

Rachel Devine 10/16/24 Rachel Devine 10/16/24

Are the Foods You are Eating Killing You? Rachel Devine

The more I learn about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, the more cautious I am about what I eat. I try to stick with organic whole foods that are relatively healthy. I gave up fast-food around 20 years ago and in doing so my underlying stomach issues vanished. This article is about looking at the processed foods that are unhealthy and touching upon how food addictions can factor into this and also look at a list of healthy foods.

Processed Foods and Health:

Nutritional Content: Processed foods, especially ultra-processed ones, are often high in calories, sugars, fats, and sodium while being low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This imbalance contributes to overnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, leading to various health issues.
Health Consequences: Regular consumption of processed foods has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain cancers. The high glycemic index of many processed foods can lead to insulin resistance and related metabolic syndromes.
Additives and Ingredients: These foods often contain additives that enhance taste, shelf life, or appearance, but which might have adverse health effects over time, like artificial trans fats linked to heart disease.

Food Addiction:

Mechanism: Food addiction is often discussed in the context of highly palatable processed foods. These foods can trigger the brain's reward system similarly to drugs, leading to compulsive eating behaviors. Ingredients like sugar, salt, and fat are manipulated to maximize palatability, which can override normal satiety signals.
Scientific Debate: While not universally accepted, the concept of food addiction has gained traction. The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) has been developed to measure addiction-like eating behaviors, suggesting that for some individuals, certain foods might act similarly to addictive substances. Anyone who has been addicted to potato chips, ice cream, or chocolate can attest to their own food addiction.
Impact on Health: Food addiction can exacerbate the health issues associated with processed foods by leading to overeating, which in turn contributes to obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. The cycle of addiction can make it difficult for individuals to adhere to healthier eating patterns.

Public Sentiment and Research

Research Trends: Recent studies and reviews continue to explore the direct links between ultra-processed food consumption and various health outcomes, including mental health. There's an ongoing effort to understand not just the physical but also the psychological impacts, like depression and anxiety, potentially linked to diet.
Health Disparities: Emerging research points to health disparities, where certain demographics might have higher rates of food addiction due to food insecurity or limited access to nutritious foods, and low income families that tend to buy cheap food, which equals to fast-food or junk food.

Here are 20 popular foods that are often categorized as ultra-processed due to their formulation, including the use of additives, preservatives, flavors, and other industrial processes that significantly alter the natural food and are very unhealthy, and causes many chronic health issues:

Unhealthy foods list:

Sugary Cereals - Like many popular breakfast cereals loaded with sugars, colors, and flavors.
Soft Drinks - Including colas and other sugary beverages with high fructose corn syrup, coloring, and preservatives.
Instant Noodles - Such as ramen, which often contain flavor enhancers, preservatives, and high amounts of sodium.
Hot Dogs - Processed meat products with various chemicals, preservatives, and flavorings.
Packaged Breads - Especially white bread, often containing preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial flavors.
Chips - Snack chips, including potato chips, with high salt content, artificial flavors, and colors.
Candy - Most candies, which are high in sugar, artificial colors, and flavors.
Frozen Dinners - Pre-prepared meals with a mix of preservatives, stabilizers, and high sodium content.
Packaged Cookies - Cookies from brands like Oreos or Chips Ahoy, full of sugars, trans fats, and artificial flavors.
Ice Cream - Particularly mass-produced ice creams that include high amounts of sugar, artificial flavors, and stabilizers.
Margarine - Often contains trans fats, flavors, and colors.
Doughnuts - Store-bought or fast food doughnuts, high in sugars, trans fats, and preservatives.
Energy Bars - Many are ultra-processed with added sugars, proteins isolates, and artificial flavors.
Crackers - Such as Ritz or similar, which are high in sodium and often contain trans fats.
Cereal Bars - Like granola bars, which might seem healthy but often contain high sugars and artificial ingredients.
Frozen Pizza - Pre-made pizzas with preservatives, artificial cheeses, and processed meats.
Cheese Puffs - Like Cheetos, with high levels of artificial flavors, colors, and fats.
Microwave Popcorn - Often contains artificial flavors, preservatives, and high salt content.
Processed Cheeses - Products like American singles, with emulsifiers, artificial colors, and flavors.
Ready-to-Drink Coffee or Tea - Bottled or canned beverages often loaded with sugars or artificial sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives.

These foods are products of extensive industrial processing, which typically involves not just cooking but also adding multiple ingredients designed to enhance flavor, extend shelf life, or improve the texture, making them significantly unhealthy compared to whole or minimally processed foods.

Now, let’s look at a list of 20 foods that are generally considered healthy and minimally processed, meaning they are either whole foods or those that undergo minimal processing that doesn't significantly alter their nutritional profile and all these foods are organic, without any pesticides.

Healthy foods List:

Apples - Fresh apples are simple to eat and contain fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Broccoli - A cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, typically eaten fresh or lightly steamed.
Brown Rice - A whole grain that retains the bran and germ, offering more nutrients than white rice.
Lentils - These legumes are a great source of protein, fiber, and various nutrients, typically cooked from dry.
Spinach - Can be eaten raw or slightly cooked, packed with iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C.
Almonds - These nuts are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E.
Salmon - Preferably wild-caught, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality proteins, and vitamins D and B.
Avocado - High in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamin K.
Sweet Potatoes - A root vegetable with high vitamin A content, fiber, and antioxidants.
Blueberries - Full of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, along with vitamin C and fiber.
Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans) - Used in various dishes, high in protein, fiber, and minerals.
Oat bran - Whole oats and bran are minimally processed and rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan.
Kale - Another leafy green with high levels of vitamins A, K, and C, and antioxidants.
Quinoa - A pseudo-cereal that's gluten-free, high in protein, and provides all essential amino acids.
Tomatoes - Fresh tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and the antioxidant lycopene.
Yogurt - Natural, plain yogurt, especially if made from grass-fed milk, is rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein.
Olives - Although slightly processed with brine or oil, olives are packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.
Beets - Root vegetables rich in folate, manganese, potassium, and nitrates.
Walnuts - Known for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber.
Eggs - Particularly from pasture-raised chickens, eggs are a complete protein source with vitamins and minerals.

Of course these two food lists are not conclusive. It’s just an idea of healthy and unhealthy foods.

Conclusion:

The correlation between processed foods, health issues, and food addiction is complex but increasingly documented. Processed foods, by design, can lead to overeating due to their palatability and additives, directly contributing to numerous health problems. Food addiction provides a framework for understanding why some individuals struggle with controlling their intake of these foods, despite knowing the health risks. Ultra processed foods are dangerous and bad for your health. The best way to get healthy is to eat all natural organic foods. The switch can add years to your life. And the effort to eat healthy is certainly worth it.

Rachel Devine’s Books

Devine Intervention Inner Healing Center website

Life Coaching Available (Free consultation)

Rachel Devine 10/1/24 Rachel Devine 10/1/24

Finding your Purpose - Excerpt from, The Third Road - Rachel Devine

Transforming your life with purpose can be the most rewarding step you can take to having passion and intention in life. I wrote a book called, The Third Road, that takes one on a journey into their inner-self and helps people discover their purpose in life. Aristotle believed, the purpose and ultimate goal in life is to achieve eudaimonia ('happiness'). He believed that being happy was not just achieving pleasure in life, rather it was the heart of virtue. What a wonderful thought, that part of being happy is having purpose in life. It’s important that one find your purpose and passion in life. Finding your purpose is the most organic and natural process you could resonate with. It is imperative to find your passion in life, in order to leave a legacy of importance for others to discover. Your spiritual journey to creating your purpose starts today.

This is an excerpt from my book, The Third Road, Your Secret Journey Home, in a chapter called, Your Purpose:

Transforming your life with purpose can be the most rewarding step you can take to having passion and intention in life. I wrote a book called, The Third Road, that takes one on a journey into their inner-self and helps people discover their purpose in life. Aristotle believed, the purpose and ultimate goal in life is to achieve eudaimonia ('happiness'). He believed that being happy was not just achieving pleasure in life, rather it was the heart of virtue. What a wonderful thought, that part of being happy is having purpose in life. It’s important that one find your purpose and passion in life. Finding your purpose is the most organic and natural process you could resonate with. It is imperative to find your passion in life, in order to leave a legacy of importance for others to discover. Your spiritual journey to creating your purpose starts today.

This is an excerpt from my book, The Third Road, Your Secret Journey Home, in a chapter called, Your Purpose:

Your Purpose

“God alone knows the secret plan of the things he will do for the world using my hand.” ~ Toyohiko Kagawa

We were all born with a specific purpose in life. Our purpose is never to be a victim, survivor, or someone whose only existence is to work, take care of the children, or to be a drifter. There is a reason why you were created. Just like there is a reason for everything that has been created. For instance, the sun heats the earth. The flowers decorate the world, and give us beauty and oxygen. The ocean reaps fish that we can eat, and the animal food chain is an amazing asset. You get the picture of how everything created has a reason for being here and they all fit into the big picture called nature.

In a sense, we are all part of a big picture called life, and our part is just as important as the part played by royalty, presidents, writers, and artists. The main thing is discover what your purpose in life is.

There was a study done a few years ago that addressed the question, “What are the components that make a person happy?” The study concluded there are three main components to happiness.

One was that people who earned a little more than enough money to live on, having extra money for things they wanted were the happiest. Being rich or poor was not on the list. Furthermore, they also concluded that people who have a creative purpose, such as, dancing, writing, art, sculpting, gardening, music, or an array of other outlets, were also happier than those without one. And the last component to happiness was having a connection to God or our Higher Power in a spiritual or religious manner.

So, there you have it. The three components to happiness are, having more than enough money to survive, having a creative outlet or purpose in life, and having a connection to a spiritual or religious Higher Power. Discovering your hidden talents such as writing, art, dance, music, singing, gardening, sports, or something that makes you really happy, can help you find your purpose in life. Your purpose in life usually benefits others in a small or large fashion. For instance, your writing talents can be used perhaps for a creative website that helps others in some way. Or you might use your musical talents to entertain the elderly in nursing homes. Perhaps you are a talented artist and you can use that talent for a voluntary promotion on the dangers of drinking and driving. Or perhaps your dancing talents can be used to entertain terminally ill children in hospitals.

We all have hidden talents and finding our purpose is not hard. The key is awareness. Just sit and meditate on what you love doing and your purpose will surface.

A man name Bill W. found his purpose in life in a very profound and mystical manner. He pulled much good out of a hopeless desperate situation in his life. Any member of 12-step program knows who Bill W. is. He is one of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, a spiritual 12-step program that helps millions of people arrest the disease of alcoholism. I am not a part of this fellowship, but I studied its traditions and steps, thereby, knowing enough about it to really appreciate the amazing spiritual aspects of its success. Bill W. started this fellowship with a man name Bob S., who was a surgeon.

I personally think the success of Alcoholics Anonymous movement is because the program is designed to help reconnect one to their Higher Power. In reconnecting to God, healing is now possible and one views their situation in a more honest, loving manner. Even the most desperate person who has the disease of alcoholism can heal when he honestly works the 12-step program, that has a spiritual basis, not a religious one, and encourages people to discover the God of their understanding.

Bill W. had an amazing awakening one night when he had reached his bottom in life. At one time he was a hopeless alcoholic and was in the hospital seeking help once again. He was at the end of his rope. Alcoholism was consuming his life and he felt an extreme desperation on this fateful night. His story is a powerful testimony of climbing out of the dark pits of despair and into the light of hope; from darkness to light in an instant, or from ego to love.

He describes his experience or conversion in this way:

“My depression deepened unbearably and finally it seemed to me as though I were at the very bottom of the pit. I still gagged badly at the notion of a Power greater than myself, but finally, just for the moment, the last vestige of my proud obstinacy was crushed. All at once I found myself crying out, “If there is a God, let Him show Himself! I am ready to do anything, anything!

Suddenly, the room lit up with a great white light. I was caught up into an ecstasy in which there were no words to describe. It seemed to me, in the mind’s eye, that I was on a mountain and that a wind not of air but of spirit was blowing. And then it burst upon me that I was a free man. Slowly the ecstasy subsided. I lay on the bed, but now for a time I was in another world a new world of consciousness. All about me and through me there was a wonderful feeling of Presence, and I thought to myself, so this is the God of the preachers! A great peace stole over me and I thought, “No matter how wrong things seem to be, they are still all right. Things are all right with God and His World.” (Alcoholics Anonymous Comes of Age): A Brief History of A.A., page 63.

What happened to Bill W. on this fateful night? What force appeared to him that gave him hope in an instant? What could give him a peace that contradicted all understanding? What was this great power that came over him? The answer is obvious. The power of God’s Spirit had come into that room with its light, its ecstasy, and its peace. God is peace and Bill W. said that, “a great peace stole over me and I thought, no matter how wrong things seem to be, they are still all right. Things are all right with God and His World.”

For a brief period, Bill stepped out of his dark world of despair and into God’s world of light and hope. In an instant, he was transformed from a man who “gagged badly at the notion of a Power greater than myself,” to a man who incredulously stated in the next instance, “so this is the God of the preachers.” His inner world was transcended from darkness to light or from great despair to hope, in an instant, but his outer world remained the same.

He stepped out of the dark road and instantly onto, The Third Road, where he started his spiritual journey “home.” He was now in a world that was unseen, but very much felt. He felt the power of God’s Spirit bind him to peace and serenity. His outer circumstances did not change, (he was still in a hospital room recovering from alcoholism) but his inner world was transformed. He was finally set free from the chains that bound him to the disease of alcoholism.

The wall that keeps us from this world of God is our own self-doubt. Release the doubt and step into God’s world that is within you and everywhere else in the world. The path to God’s love, and this peaceful world is through nurturing the soul. Prayer, meditations, reading spiritual literature, peaceful music, and serene walks in nature, are all ways to reconnect to this omnipresent Spirit of our loving Higher Power, which I reverently call God. A spiritual awakening is an individual experience. You might have an awakening similar to Bill W. and you might not. Some awakenings are more subtle than others, and others come about gradually with time. It doesn’t matter how it happens, all that matters is that it does happen. An open trusting heart is imperative to connect to this omnipresence.

When Bill W. connected to his Higher power, he found strength to stop drinking and also become one of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, a 12-step program that has literally changed the lives of millions of people, helping them find the same peace with sobriety in their lives. In turn, this helped their families find peace and the domino effect of God’s presence on that fateful night flourished and still lives on today. God, with all His mercy and divine love, touched the life of Bill W., and in turn touched the lives of literally millions of souls in the world who suffer from the ill effects of a debilitating disease called alcoholism. The 12-step fellowship has branched out into numerous self-help groups such as Al-Anon, Nicotine, Emotions, and Overeaters Anonymous, just to name a few.

The only way to find your purpose is to put emphasis on who you are, what you want, and how you will go about doing that. In order to find your purpose in life you must put some time and focus on yourself. My writing took creative shape because I pursued what I love doing and kept my focus on my goals. It was easy, because I was doing something I love with a deep passion, which has given me so much joy. Writing is my passion in life, what is your passion or purpose in life?

End of excerpt.

Get your copy of The Third Road on Amazon.

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Please let me know in the comments what your purpose is in life or send me an email. Or just leave a comment letting me know about what steps you might take to achieve some goals.

Rachel Devine 9/25/24 Rachel Devine 9/25/24

7 Ways to Stop Worrying and Start Living Rachel Devine

Many people are under the false illusion that if they worry, they somehow have control over the outcome. I can assure you that, worry never changed the outcome of any situation. And quite honestly, the more we worry the more negative energy is poured over the problem you are worrying about. Let’s look at ways on how to stop worrying about the future. Let’s explore 7 ways to stop worrying and start living.

Many people are under the false illusion that if they worry, they somehow have control over the outcome. I can assure you that, worry never changes the outcome of any situation. And quite honestly, the more we worry, the more negative energy is poured over the problem you are worrying about. Let’s explore 7 ways to stop worrying and start living. And let’s explore how this can transform your life!

Stay in the Moment

The first step to get rid of worry is to stay in the moment. When we worry, we have lost touch with reality, because we are not living in the moment, but living in the future about what we are worried about. When you can focus on the solution to whatever you are worried about, you can stay in the moment. We are all safe in the moment, because we don’t think about past regrets or future worries in this sacred moment. Some ways to stay in the moment would be to say a prayer, take a walk in nature, or perhaps meditate or do a mindful exercise. Looking at the trees, the sky, and the birds, will put you in the moment. You can close your eyes and just put yourself in a happy place of peace.

Is it Real or Imagined?

You want to ask yourself if your worry is real or imagined. Ask yourself these three questions.

Is what I am worried about definitely something that will happen?
Is what I am worried about, maybe something that will happen?
Is what I am worried about unlikely to happen?
Sometimes we worry about things that are unlikely to happen, just out of habit, because we are so conditioned to worry. We also worry about something that might happen in life, but then again, it might not happen. If you are worried about something that is definitely going to happen, you might want to turn that around to be proactive. Having a proactive approach to solving a problem is much more empowering than worrying about it. Look for solutions, not at the problem. If you are at a point where worry is ruling your life, then it might be time to talk it out with a professional therapist. Even some short-term therapy can give great perspective on what is happening around us.

Let Go and Let God

Let go and let God is a 12-step slogan, which is very useful in a state of worry. When we can put our problems in God’s hands, we can find some serenity and acceptance. Some of our problems are not within our control. We might be lamenting over a problem that a family member has that we have absolutely no say in or control over. In these circumstances, we have to trust in our Higher Power and know that letting go will bring acceptance and peace. If you are worried about someone you love, you can mentally wrap them in your favorite blanket and hand them over to God to care for them. This will release you from any worry about the outcome of their problem. Another way to find peace is to immerse yourself in positive quotes.

Release the Fear

Fear is usually the culprit behind worry. We start to think about the future, and fear comes into play with all of its predictions for a horror-filled future. I always say that if you are going to predict how the future will turn out, why not choose a positive outcome rather than a negative one? Choosing a negative outcome will only put a lot of negative energy around the problem. Choosing a positive outcome will put positive energy into the problem. From my experience in life, when I am in a positive state of mind, my life moves in a positive direction. This is the premise of the law of attraction. We attract what we are thinking about, or like attracts like. Release the fear and replace it with love. Say a loving prayer. Just stay in a loving state and don't let fear take control. Remember, fear is a state of mind, and you have the power to change your thoughts.

Positive Visualization

There is power in positive visualization. Just sit and visualize a positive outcome for whatever you are worried about. Sit and picture a perfect outcome, and keep that vision in your head throughout the day. You can also fall asleep at night with one positive image. You can add feelings to that image. I suggest, as you fall asleep feel what it would be like if your positive visualization came to fruition. It is the feelings that can bring the image into your waking world, as you would be feeding these feelings into your subconscious mind, which navigates your life 97% of the time. You can also feel and visualize your happy place, and you can put yourself in that state often. Visualizing a place of peace and happiness on a regular basis, will help alleviate stress and worry. What a gift to have a place to go to in your mind that invokes happiness.

Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude is the equalizer in life. When you wake up each morning, list 10 things you are grateful for. It would be hard to spend the rest of your day worrying or complaining when you are in a state of gratitude. Worrying is a waste of energy. Use your energy to invigorate your environment with gratitude, which will enhance your life with much peace. Being in a state of gratitude will also make you feel happy.

In closing, remember once you can put worry aside, you can start to live again and be happy. Make plans to go out with friends or visit family. Perhaps you have put off a long-awaited vacation. Or maybe you want to take a drive to the mountains, the beach, or visit that new winery. Maybe you want to go to a movie or go out to your favorite restaurant. Maybe you want to go to a concert. Your life cycle happens one time, so you want to make the most of each day. The way to do that is to release the worry by staying in the moment, letting God handle your worries, releasing the fear, using positive visualization, and staying in gratitude. Once you can practice these steps, you are on your way to living a full life free of worry, which will bring true happiness and peace.

Rachel Devine is the author of, The Third Road, a book that gently guides one to the power within and your purpose in life & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack, a spiritual book on dating and relationships.

Life coaching is available.

Devine Intervention website.

Please leave your ideas in the comments. I will answer any questions you may have. Please also feel free to contact me.

Rachel Devine 9/19/24 Rachel Devine 9/19/24

How to use the Law of Attraction - Rachel Devine

The law of attraction is a phenomenon that many of us have heard about and some are familiar with it and some people are not. It is the idea that like attracts like and that our thoughts attract what we think about into our lives. It is based on the idea that thoughts, words, feelings, and actions bring about circumstances in life and can be changed by changing what we think about. This is where the power of positive thinking comes into play, especially if you want to attract positive situations into your life. I have done extensive research into the law of attraction and wrote about it in my book, Discover the Power of the Secret Within. I will outline, in simple terms, what the law of attraction is, the steps for the law of attraction and how to practice the law of attraction in your life. The law of attraction is actually broken into 3 laws. Let’s explore them, and I will elaborate on what this all means.

The 3 Laws of Attraction:

Like attracts like
The first law of attraction is like attracts like. The thoughts you think and the words you speak will come back to you. It is like being in an echo chamber; if you yell the word love, love comes back. Using positive affirmations is a way to put great energy out into the vast universe. The law of attraction is a philosophy suggesting that positive thoughts bring positive results into a person's life, while negative thoughts bring negative outcomes.
Nature Abhors a Vacuum
The second law of attraction is that Nature Abhors a Vacuum. In technical terms, this is based on the laws of thermodynamics. What this means is that it is impossible to create a completely empty space because atoms are always bouncing around and immediately fill any empty space. Simply put, if you clear a space in your drawing and it keeps getting filled with other things, it is a good example of what this second law means; if there is a gap, something will fill it. The second phrase expresses the idea that clearing space in your life allows room for something else to fill it.
The present is always perfect
The third law of attraction is that the present is always perfect and all manifestations are happening at once. The present moment is the only time that exists. When we are worrying about something in the future or lamenting over a past event that no longer exists, we are not in the present moment and therefore can't be enjoying it. We are in an illusion unless we are in the present moment. Take advantage of this moment to manifest your dreams and goals. Additionally, making an effort to shift into a state of gratitude or appreciation helps you harness the power of this law, which begins with seeing and feeling good in your body, heart, mind, and spirit. Living in the present moment means being grateful for what you have now and being open to new opportunities that may come along down the road.

The law of attraction is the idea that what you think, feel, and focus on attracts more of the same. For example, if you want to attract a soulmate, you need to resonate with positive, loving thoughts on what you want your soulmate to be like. The key is you have to resonate with the same character traits as what you seek. If you want to attract more money, focus on ways to make more money and ways to keep it. Also visualize having money and what you will do with that money. Remember, feelings play a big role in the law of attraction. You want to feel happy and content with your visualizations of attracting money or whatever you want to attract.

The Law of Attraction has been an ancient idea, and the concept of attraction is the foundation of many philosophies, religions, and New Age beliefs. It all started back in around 391 BC with Plato when he said, “Likes tend towards likes,” which equates to “like attracts like.”

Believe it or not, Jesus was also one of the first to speak about the law of attraction when he said, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” Mark 11:24

In this verse, Jesus basically is saying, as you pray you need to believe in your heart that you have already have what you desire. In other words, you need to think the thoughts and feel the emotions of the futuristic state you want. As per the LOA, this makes you a vibrational match to the thing that you desire.

Actually, it was William James who explained it in more scientific terms back in the 19th century. William James (1842–1910) was an American philosopher. He studied at Harvard University, where he became professor of philosophy and psychology. He is best known for his philosophical work, The Principles of Psychology (1890) and Varieties of Religious Experience (1902).

You may be familiar with William James and how he fits into the Law of Attraction. Dr. Wayne Dyer says that James is one of the most influential thinkers of his time.

William James was a very well-known philosopher and psychologist. James’ work on the law of attraction includes many ideas that are common today, but his original hypotheses were not popularly accepted until quite recently.

The LOA is a universal law, like gravity or the electric charge on a particle. It is magnetic in nature, like the ocean’s influence on the tide, with its magnetic force. It is an unseen force, like electricity, with its invisible power. LOA doesn't care whether or not you believe in it. You can reject it from your mind and deny it with your actions, but you can't hide from it, you can't evade it, and you can't forget about it. It is working in your life, whether you are conscious of it or not. It always worked in your life. The key is to have it work in a positive way. If you think back on negative experiences, you might correlate your mindset at the time as negative. If you think back on happy, positive times, you might correlate your mindset with being positive and happy at that time.

4 Steps to Use the Law of Attraction

Affirmations

Say positive affirmations several times every day and remember to feel what it would be like to obtain what you want.

I am in a loving relationship.
I am a magnet for money and it flows into my life now.
I have the job of my dreams.
My business is very successful.
I am healthy.

Visualizations

The next step is to visualize what you want. Just sit and see yourself in a loving relationship or good health and feel the feelings associated with being in that state. Do this several times a day for at least 10 minutes at a time. Also, surround yourself with pictures of the visualization, or better yet, create a vision board. A vision board is where you will post pictures and words on construction paper or a thin board that correlate with your vision for your future. There are plenty of examples you can get online.

Gratitude

Stay in gratitude. Write a gratitude list daily on things you are already grateful for and for things that you want to be grateful for. List at least 5 things you are grateful for daily.

Meditate

Before you fall asleep each night, resonate and use one picture in your mind of what you want to attract into your life and fall asleep with those thoughts, feelings, and affirmations meditating in your mind. You are going to resonate with those thoughts for 8 hours, and you want those nighttime thoughts to be positive.

In conclusion, no matter how you slice it, the law of attraction is a phenomenon that is here to stay. It’s part of the rhythm of nature. The question is, now that you have all this awareness on the Law of Attraction, what will you do with this information? Will you shift your thoughts, feelings, and speech to positive ones, or just ignore this and go on with your life as it is?

The choice is always up to you.

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Rachel Devine 9/13/24 Rachel Devine 9/13/24

Find Your Happy Place and Uncover Inner Joy -Rachel Devine

Life presents many external stresses and challenges that can negatively impact our sense of peace and wellbeing. Even our routine day becomes mundane and doesn’t give one much to be happy about. Finding your happy place is worth exploring. We have the power to cultivate a “happy place” within ourselves, no matter what is happening externally. Finding your happy place provides a source of calm, contentment, and respite that promotes better mental and physical health.

Let’s go to your happy place.

What is a Happy Place?

A happy place is an imagined realm inside your mind where you feel completely at ease, fully at peace, and enveloped in warmth. It is a place that you find joy and happiness. It is someplace special where you know you are safe. It is a sanctuary you can access through visualization and meditation. Some describe it as a serene garden, a favorite nature setting, or even an abstraction like a sea of light. Other’s find their happy place at the beach or a lake-house. And some might find their happy place in the mountains or in another country. It can be a place you visited before, or a place where you would like to visit and you imagine it in your mind in full detail. As an example, my happy place is lying under hundreds of cherry blossom trees. I actually had the opportunity to have a blissful experience at the Botanical Gardens and never forgot the immense feeling of peace under those beautiful pink trees. Your happy place is whatever brings you profound inner joy.

Your Happy Place Benefits

Accessing your inner temple has been shown to decrease stress, anxiety, blood pressure, and perceived pain. It also boosts mood, creativity, confidence, and emotional resilience. Neuroimaging confirms that envisioning your happy place activates brain areas linked to relaxation and positive emotions. Therefore, finding your happy place can reap health benefits.

Even a few minutes of escaping inward to your sanctuary during stressful times can quickly bring relief and renewal. Also a few minutes in your place of bliss, during a work break, can help you be more creative when you return to work. It will help you feel more refreshed and perhaps more energetic. Make visiting your happy place a daily practice and you may see notable improvements in overall wellbeing and definitely in reduction of stress.

Finding Your Happy Place

There are no rules on what form your happy place should take. Experiment with different visualization techniques to discover what works best. Also try adding in soothing music or essential oil aromas. The key is genuinely feeling the tranquility and bliss of being there.

Author Dr. Sarah Bamford Seidelmann suggests asking yourself questions like "Where do you feel safest? Where are you surrounded by beauty? Where do you feel loved?" Famous meditation guru, Deepak Chopra, advises focusing on memories of joyful moments as inspiration. Dr. Wayne Dyer said, “Happiness is something that you are, and it comes from the way you think. The state of your life is nothing more than a reflection of the state of your mind.” Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that going to your happy place on a regular basis will in turn bring happiness and joy into your life. Afterall, happines is a reflection of our state of mind.

Using Your Imagination

Life’s constant demands sometimes causes a lot of stress, but you can always return to the stillness within. There is no better medicine than your own inner temple of peace and contentment. Using your imagination to find your happy place is the way to journey into joy. Become the architect of your ultimate happy place. When you need refuge, retreat inward to this portable sanctuary and feel tension dissolve. Your happy place is always accessible and getting in the habit of going there, will help you reap enormous benefits. Even sitting at a red light, can give you a minute to enter into your inner calm.

In conclusion, we can go anywhere in the world, in our imagination, and feel a deep sense of peace. Albert Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.” These are great words of wisdom. Regularly visiting your inner sanctum, through mindful meditation, allows you to return to a state of calm and happiness, empowering you to manage life’s ups and downs from a more stable foundation. Return to your inner sanctuary - where your inner happy place awaits you.

The Third Road & Lessons from the Needle in a Haystack.

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Look for my new book, Tales of Hope, Love and Discovery, A collection of Short Stories of Enlightenment, that will be published in the next few weeks.

Rachel Devine 8/26/24 Rachel Devine 8/26/24

Are you Addicted to Potato Chips & are they as Bad as Cocaine? Rachel Devine

I suspected I was addicted to potato chips many, many years ago and I decided to do some research into it. And I found some fascinating facts on food-addictions that was startling. The way I got off eating potato chips was not to bring them in the house and a lot of will-power. The fact that carbohydrates does cause inflammation made it a very easy choice to stop eating them.

Let’s delve into.

The Addictive Nature of Ultra-Processed Foods, especially Potato Chips:

In recent years, the food industry has some under scrutiny for producing ultra-processed foods (UPFs) that are not only detrimental to health but also potentially addictive. Among these, potato chips stand out due to their widespread consumption and the unique combination of ingredients that contribute to addictive behaviors.

Why Are Potato Chips Addictive?

Combination of Fat and Carbohydrates: Research, including studies led by Ashley Gearhardt from the University of Michigan, suggests that the mix of refined carbohydrates and fats in UPFs like potato chips creates a "supra-additive effect" on the brain's reward system. This combination is more rewarding than either nutrient alone, enhancing the addictive potential.
Additives and Flavor Enhancers: Ingredients like monosodium glutamate (MSG) are commonly used in snacks to enhance flavor. While controversial, MSG can increase cravings by stimulating taste receptors, leading to overconsumption.
Rapid Nutrient Delivery: The processing of potato chips removes much of the fiber and water, allowing for rapid absorption of fats and carbs into the bloodstream. This quick hit of nutrients can trigger dopamine release, similar to what's seen with drug addiction.

The Addictive Nature of Ultra-Processed Foods, especially Potato Chips:

Why Are Potato Chips Addictive?

Combination of Fat and Carbohydrates: Research, including studies led by Ashley Gearhardt from the University of Michigan, suggests that the mix of refined carbohydrates and fats in UPFs like potato chips creates a "supra-additive effect" on the brain's reward system. This combination is more rewarding than either nutrient alone, enhancing the addictive potential.
Additives and Flavor Enhancers: Ingredients like monosodium glutamate (MSG) are commonly used in snacks to enhance flavor. While controversial, MSG can increase cravings by stimulating taste receptors, leading to overconsumption.
Rapid Nutrient Delivery: The processing of potato chips removes much of the fiber and water, allowing for rapid absorption of fats and carbs into the bloodstream. This quick hit of nutrients can trigger dopamine release, similar to what's seen with drug addiction.

Clinical Insights and Studies (Stats from Grok 2 X)

Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS): Developed to assess food addiction, YFAS has been instrumental in identifying addictive behaviors towards foods high in sugar, fat, and salt. These three ingredients are the secret sauce to addictions. Studies using YFAS have shown that a significant percentage of the population might be addicted to UPFs, with symptoms mirroring those of substance abuse.
Neurological Studies: Research, including brain imaging, has demonstrated that consuming foods like potato chips can activate the same reward centers in the brain as drugs like cocaine. A study highlighted in Scientific American discussed how a milkshake, akin to the composition of many UPFs, led to dopamine release comparable to that seen with amphetamines.
Global Health Implications: An analysis across 36 countries found that 14% of adults and 12% of children showed signs of addiction to UPFs, indicating a widespread issue. This addiction is linked not just to psychological but also to physical health declines, including increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Potato Chips vs. Cocaine: A Comparison

While drawing a direct comparison between potato chips and cocaine might seem extreme, the mechanism of addiction shares similarities:

Dopamine Release: Both substances trigger significant dopamine release, which is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward.
Behavioral Patterns: Addicts of both might exhibit loss of control, continued use despite negative consequences, and intense cravings.
Physiological Impact: Over time, the brain's reward system might adapt, leading to tolerance where more of the substance is needed for the same effect, a common trait in addiction.

Eating potato chips, especially frequently or in large quantities, can pose several health hazards due to their composition and preparation methods. Here are some of the key concerns:

1. High Caloric Content and Obesity

Calories: Potato chips are typically high in calories, often from unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates. Regular consumption can lead to an excess caloric intake, contributing to weight gain and obesity.

2. Unhealthy Fats

Trans Fats: Some potato chips, particularly those not labeled as trans-fat-free, might contain trans fats, which are known to raise bad cholesterol (LDL) and lower good cholesterol (HDL), increasing the risk of heart disease.
Saturated Fats: Even if trans fats are avoided, chips can be high in saturated fats, which, in excess, can also contribute to cardiovascular issues.

3. High Sodium Content

Blood Pressure: Potato chips are often high in sodium, which can lead to increased blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

4. Acrylamide

Formation: Acrylamide is a chemical that forms when starchy foods like potatoes are cooked at high temperatures, as in frying or baking. It's classified as a potential carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Health Risks: While the direct link between dietary acrylamide and cancer in humans isn't conclusively established, high levels are concerning due to animal studies showing increased cancer risk.

5. Additives and Preservatives

Artificial Ingredients: Many brands use various additives, preservatives, and flavor enhancers like MSG, which might cause adverse reactions in some individuals, including allergic reactions or exacerbation of conditions like asthm

6. Potential for Addiction

Reward System: As mentioned earlier, the combination of fats, salt, and rapid carbohydrate absorption can trigger the brain's reward system, potentially leading to addictive eating behaviors.

Clinical studies and psychological research increasingly support the notion that these foods can be as challenging to give up as traditional addictive substances, like cocaine, due to their impact on the brain's reward system. Addressing this issue requires not just personal willpower but also policy changes, research into food additives, and a reevaluation of how food is produced and marketed. The journey towards understanding and combating food addiction is complex, but the growing body of evidence suggests it's a battle worth fighting for public health.

Conclusion

I want to emphasize that most processed foods have similar addictive and unhealthy ingredients as potato chips. I would like to stress that single ingredient foods, like organic fruits, vegetables and nuts are healthy foods. The addiction to potato chips and similar UPFs isn't just about taste or convenience; it's deeply rooted in their formulation designed to maximize consumption and that equals more sales. The bottom line is always profits in most of the food industry, above health.