If you are one of the people lucky enough to be in a position of wealth and privilege, what do you want to contribute to humankind with your one precious life?
That question and the ones I offer in this blog are questions I am asking myself as I build my business, and questions I had the delight of asking myself in shared company this past weekend.
Despite the hazy skies in Ashland, OR, women and men gathered for Shakti United, a Kirtan festival created to honor women’s voices and women leaders of Kirtan in the community. I was honored to be one of the artists offering music, and our weekend was filled with chanting, laughter, prayers and the transforming energy of gathering in community. We had a beautiful event.
I have had the immense privilege of growing up with extremely strong women role models in my life, and choosing friendships with women who care to create rich visions for their lives and hold strong desires to live true to their hearts and beliefs, even when doing so is not easy. My aunties and mom are known for their intelligence, strong opinions, and leadership.
The painful awareness that this is not the case for the majority of women on the planet came early on in my life.
To me, this reality begs the question, how the heck do we make a difference in this crazy world?
How do we empower each other to be makers of change in this world?
At Shakti United, this question was asked by many of the artists and participants in different ways and we were listening for answers from deep within. We are more and have access to so much more when we gather, when we break out of the isolating patterns that can leave us swirling in our heads... when we take the time to have important conversations with people we love and people we want to serve.
These conversations can translate into actions that are aligned with our deepest intentions.
Here’s a brief writing exercise to help you focus on bringing more connection and heart into your business and into your life. So grab a pen and paper and enjoy!
How will you contribute to this changing world?
(10 min exercise for focus and clarity)
Do you have a strong focus on empowerment of others in your work? If no, how can you make a simple shift to bring this into focus? If yes, what new idea or action can further this focus?
How does your business reflect your spirit of generosity both with your clients/customers and with your larger sense of community?
Is there a place where you KNOW you are sabotaging yourself in your work? How can you garner the support of your community, friends or a loved one, to help lift you out of this pattern?
Do you take the time to really listen to your community? How can your presence make a difference for your customers and people?
Is there a simple act of kindness you can offer to another today? Is there a simple act of kindness you can offer yourself today?
I hope that taking the time to ponder these questions will serve you in your pursuit of serving others!
AND.... It’s my birthday time! In honor of this astrological time of Leo, and the giving and receiving nature of the heart, I have included in this blog a way for you all to donate to the incredible organization that was the fundraising focus of Shakti United, called Mitrata-Nepal, a non-profit in Nepal that helps to lift children out of abject poverty and all the hardships that go along with it. With a focus on education, medical care, individual attention, and therapy, this organization is able to give 98% of their donations directly to the programs which benefit the children they serve. Please consider giving even a small donation to this organization which can do A LOT with what many of us feel to be a very small amount of money. To read more and donate please click HERE
In the spirit of love and finding the right ways for each of us to make a difference…
To learn more about Shakti United, click HERE
Photo by Chris Ensey on Unsplash