22. Loves to daydream: An empath can stare into space for hours, in a world of
their own and blissfully happy.
I am not much of a daydreamer. I will, once in a while get stuck in a thought. I'll catch Jeremy trying to wave me out of my zone.
Or maybe I am...
I just do it differently...
If I look at this post in a different light, I guess I can escape to a world of my own for hours and be blissfully happy - I choose to do this with a book. I choose to do my daydreaming in the pages of books.
A good book could absorb me for hours on end. I love that.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Traits of an Empath #21
21. Abhors clutter: It makes an empath feel weighed down and blocks the flow of
energy.
Until I sat down and started writing these, I didn't realize quite how hard they hit home.
This one knocks me off my feet.
I HATE clutter. I HATE crap! I get SO sick of stuff.
I grew up in a house of, "Save that!", "Move that pile to this chair.", "Just move those papers, you can sit there.", "Don't mess up my papers there, Gail Ann", "Don't move that!" and "I was saving those."
I do not save much of anything. Not plastic butter dishes, no cream cheese containers, none of the "dishes" from microwave meals (nor do I buy microwave meals). I don't save ink pens, twistie ties, jelly jars - or any other plastic jars, plastic baggies, plastic silverware, or any other little tidbits of junk.
That said, I do recycle everything I possibly can.
I do not keep most of the books that I have read. I generally pass them along to someone else or I donate them to my local library.
I keep a box on my porch that I add odds and ends to and once that is full, it goes to the curb as freebies. If no one picks them up, they get donated.
Most old toys get cycle through our daycare.
I usually have 2 sometimes 3, clothing piles going - 1 for Goodwill and another for a church based thrift store. The 3rd is generally a pile that I say I will see on online auction but, they eventually end up in the church pile and get donated when ever the bag is full.
When ink pens accumulate, I send a baggie of them to work with Jeremy. Restaurants ALWAYS need pens! And generally because he brings them home from there!
I've also changed a lot of what I buy as well. Right now, I'm on a "use it up" kick. This happens when I have 10 of one thing and have refused to buy more until what we have is gone. Currently - gallon size zipper seal bags, soap/shampoo, any kind of body lotion, and BBQ sauce. The downfall to this rule - when I run out of these things, I never think to buy them because I've been convinced for so long that we don't need them!
I try to resist taking hotel toiletries but, when they smell good, I do bring them home.
I don't want to live in clutter. I didn't like it the first time. I do become rather paranoid when I feel the stuff starting to pile up and then the uncontrollable urge to purge takes over! And I do not mind!
Until I sat down and started writing these, I didn't realize quite how hard they hit home.
This one knocks me off my feet.
I HATE clutter. I HATE crap! I get SO sick of stuff.
I grew up in a house of, "Save that!", "Move that pile to this chair.", "Just move those papers, you can sit there.", "Don't mess up my papers there, Gail Ann", "Don't move that!" and "I was saving those."
I do not save much of anything. Not plastic butter dishes, no cream cheese containers, none of the "dishes" from microwave meals (nor do I buy microwave meals). I don't save ink pens, twistie ties, jelly jars - or any other plastic jars, plastic baggies, plastic silverware, or any other little tidbits of junk.
That said, I do recycle everything I possibly can.
I do not keep most of the books that I have read. I generally pass them along to someone else or I donate them to my local library.
I keep a box on my porch that I add odds and ends to and once that is full, it goes to the curb as freebies. If no one picks them up, they get donated.
Most old toys get cycle through our daycare.
I usually have 2 sometimes 3, clothing piles going - 1 for Goodwill and another for a church based thrift store. The 3rd is generally a pile that I say I will see on online auction but, they eventually end up in the church pile and get donated when ever the bag is full.
When ink pens accumulate, I send a baggie of them to work with Jeremy. Restaurants ALWAYS need pens! And generally because he brings them home from there!
I've also changed a lot of what I buy as well. Right now, I'm on a "use it up" kick. This happens when I have 10 of one thing and have refused to buy more until what we have is gone. Currently - gallon size zipper seal bags, soap/shampoo, any kind of body lotion, and BBQ sauce. The downfall to this rule - when I run out of these things, I never think to buy them because I've been convinced for so long that we don't need them!
I try to resist taking hotel toiletries but, when they smell good, I do bring them home.
I don't want to live in clutter. I didn't like it the first time. I do become rather paranoid when I feel the stuff starting to pile up and then the uncontrollable urge to purge takes over! And I do not mind!
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Traits of an Empath #20
20. Likes adventure, freedom and travel: Empaths are free spirits.
My sense of adventure does not involve rock climbing or bungee jumping. I like to go to new places, see and try new things. Safe things. I am absolutely terrified of heights (and some bridges) which limit visits to cliffs or overhangs, roller coasters - those type things. As I've gotten older, these fears have increased.
I love to travel, I love to visit, though I'm always happy to get back to the comfort and familiarness of home. I often tell Jeremy that I'd love to sell our big house and buy a small condo that doesn't require our upkeep. To be able to get in the car on a Saturday morning and just go somewhere, anywhere. Maybe after we retire!
I am not much of a free spirit. I like to think as one but, I'm so responsible. Too responsible, too accountable. I can't just let things go, I like my home neat (though right now you might not know it) and orderly. I have things that need to be taken care of, I can't just go out whichever way the wind blows me.
Though if I do have a few hours to myself, and the opportunity, I love to go to the beach, walk along the water's edge and just be free. That is when you can see my spirit soar!
My sense of adventure does not involve rock climbing or bungee jumping. I like to go to new places, see and try new things. Safe things. I am absolutely terrified of heights (and some bridges) which limit visits to cliffs or overhangs, roller coasters - those type things. As I've gotten older, these fears have increased.
I love to travel, I love to visit, though I'm always happy to get back to the comfort and familiarness of home. I often tell Jeremy that I'd love to sell our big house and buy a small condo that doesn't require our upkeep. To be able to get in the car on a Saturday morning and just go somewhere, anywhere. Maybe after we retire!
I am not much of a free spirit. I like to think as one but, I'm so responsible. Too responsible, too accountable. I can't just let things go, I like my home neat (though right now you might not know it) and orderly. I have things that need to be taken care of, I can't just go out whichever way the wind blows me.
Though if I do have a few hours to myself, and the opportunity, I love to go to the beach, walk along the water's edge and just be free. That is when you can see my spirit soar!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Firetruck Weekend 2013 (aka Memorial Day)
Every year (this was the 7th annual), Downtown Allegan hosts the Old Iron Bridge Motorcycle Show and every year Allegan Fire District takes the big ladder truck (also known as 51) to the show. The ladder is fully extended and the kids (and moms & dads) are allowed in to check it all out. We spent over and hour in this truck - driving to a barn fire, calling on the radio, ringing the bell. They wouldn't let us climb the ladder. We were late for a birthday party. But look at the smile and the pride on this kid's face!! I can't tell you how blessed we are to have a fire department that has young kids and grandkids. These guys are so great with all of these kids. They most all know us now and don't worry about entertaining us but, it is THE BEST to see one of the guys jump in the seat and "drive us to a fire". I can't say this enough, I LOVE this city. LOVE IT!!
We had an ulterior motive to checking out the motorcycle show. Jacob wanted to ride in Engine 16 for the parade on Monday. Now, I being as outspoken as I generally am, believe that if he wants to take these opportunities with the Fire District, that he, at his 7 years is capable of asking for what he wants. I told him, if he wanted to ride in the parade, it was okay with me but, he had to ask Bruce (chief) all by himself. I wasn't making these opportunities any more.
My boy walked right up to his hero, looked down at his own shoes and said quietly, "Bruce, can I ride in the parade? In 16?" And Bruce, ever the tough guy, said "OK!" Jacob was on cloud 9. He'd landed a seat! But, then our, and I say this dripping with sarcasm, hard nosed, chief says, "Or would you rather ride with me?"
Allegan City did get a new police car. A new #4. It's the Dodge Charger. We have directions from the Police Chief to get down to the station and check it out but, ugh! School is such an inconvenience!!
Our friend Bruce's truck.
And here's my boy, happy as a clam. Proud as potatoes. Riding in his favorite Fire Engine.
There were about 20 kids packed in there.
After the parade, Jeremy and I went to get a coffee before heading to the station to get our kid. We sat in the parking lot, watched all the trucks return to the station, watched all the kids get out and run around but, there was no Jacob in the bunch. I asked the firefighter who drove 16 if all the kids were out, "Yep, no one left in there." and still no Jacob. I saw our neighbor and asked if he'd seen Jacob. "Yep, he's with Bruce." of course he is. Duh, mom. Where else would he be? Turns out he took Bruce up on his offer. He rode in the parade and to the cemetery in Engine 16 then went with Bruce and rode back in the chief's truck! The best of both worlds!
This smile just might never wear off!
Monday, May 27, 2013
The Soldier - Memorial Day, 2013
The Soldier
It is the soldier, not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the soldier, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,
who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.
It is the soldier, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the soldier,
who salutes the flag,
who serves under the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag,
who allows the protester to burn the flag.
By Charles M. Province, copyright 1970, 2010
Thank you to all Soldiers for your service and dedication to our country.
We also thank the members of our family who fought for freedom under our flag.
Daniel Benson Nolff - who gave his life in service of our country on October 29, 1966
Claude E. Harper (May 20, 2013) -- POW WWII
Henry "Butch" Nolff Sr. (July 4, 2003) -- Vietnam
Wilbur "Web" Elenbaas (Sept. 4, 1999) -- Korea
Larry Hagen (Dec. 26, 2008) -- Korea
John L. Coleman (July 24, 1994) -- WWII
Arthur A. Elenbaas (March 10, 2011) -- WWII
Clayton H. Elenbaas (April 6, 2001) -- WWII
Gordon F. Elenbaas (November 8, 1999) -- WWII
Richard Elenbaas (Sept. 4, 1970) -- WWI
And those who also served.
J. Alan Coleman, USMC
Don Harper, US Army
Bill Harper, US Air Force
Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored. ~Daniel Webster
It is the soldier, not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the soldier, not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the soldier, not the campus organizer,
who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.
It is the soldier, not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the soldier,
who salutes the flag,
who serves under the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag,
who allows the protester to burn the flag.
By Charles M. Province, copyright 1970, 2010
Thank you to all Soldiers for your service and dedication to our country.
We also thank the members of our family who fought for freedom under our flag.
Daniel Benson Nolff - who gave his life in service of our country on October 29, 1966
Claude E. Harper (May 20, 2013) -- POW WWII
Henry "Butch" Nolff Sr. (July 4, 2003) -- Vietnam
Wilbur "Web" Elenbaas (Sept. 4, 1999) -- Korea
Larry Hagen (Dec. 26, 2008) -- Korea
John L. Coleman (July 24, 1994) -- WWII
Arthur A. Elenbaas (March 10, 2011) -- WWII
Clayton H. Elenbaas (April 6, 2001) -- WWII
Gordon F. Elenbaas (November 8, 1999) -- WWII
Richard Elenbaas (Sept. 4, 1970) -- WWI
And those who also served.
J. Alan Coleman, USMC
Don Harper, US Army
Bill Harper, US Air Force
Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored. ~Daniel Webster
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Traits of an Empath #19
19. Always looking for the answers and knowledge: To have unanswered questions can be frustrating for an empath and they will endeavour to find an explanation. If they have a knowing about something they will look for confirmation. The downside to this is an information overload
I am the Queen of "Google it"!
I look everything up. I have to know the ins, the outs, the ups and downs, lefts and rights. I will not be satisfied until I have done all off the research. I hate internet hoaxes, and when people post untrue stories on social networking sites and I always have to look them up. It really irks me when someone does it to me because - I wouldn't have shared or posted it if I didn't look it up already myself! And my definition of "look it up" is not just one website, or one source, it's like 10 sites/sources in agreement.
If I don't understand something, I have to look it up. I have a dictionary bookmarked on every computer (and I love that my Kindle fire has a dictionary built in). I can't just skip over the word, I must know the definition.
This also pertains to anything I'm going to purchase. I must research my options. When purchasing the new car, I camped on the manufacturer's website for 2 days. I found reviews, gas mileage, owner opinion sites, looking for as much info as I could find. I like to know more than the sales person. I don't like to be blindsided - I want my homework done!
I am the Queen of "Google it"!
I look everything up. I have to know the ins, the outs, the ups and downs, lefts and rights. I will not be satisfied until I have done all off the research. I hate internet hoaxes, and when people post untrue stories on social networking sites and I always have to look them up. It really irks me when someone does it to me because - I wouldn't have shared or posted it if I didn't look it up already myself! And my definition of "look it up" is not just one website, or one source, it's like 10 sites/sources in agreement.
If I don't understand something, I have to look it up. I have a dictionary bookmarked on every computer (and I love that my Kindle fire has a dictionary built in). I can't just skip over the word, I must know the definition.
This also pertains to anything I'm going to purchase. I must research my options. When purchasing the new car, I camped on the manufacturer's website for 2 days. I found reviews, gas mileage, owner opinion sites, looking for as much info as I could find. I like to know more than the sales person. I don't like to be blindsided - I want my homework done!
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Traits of an Empath #18
18. Strives for the truth: This becomes more prevalent when an empath discovers his/her gifts and birthright. Anything untruthful feels plain wrong.
Truth. I must have the facts - I must have the truth. I rarely believe anything - I am NOT gullible.
I don't lie well. I'm so afraid that if I do, I'll forget I did and I'll spill the truth anyway. Not that I can't keep a secret, I can. It's just tough to lie. If I'm asked anything directly, the truth just falls right out of my mouth before I can even catch it.
That said, I can't force myself to be with people I do not like. I can't put on that falseness to tolerate. I can tolerate, I just can't tolerate someone that I have sorted into the "Nope" group. This group generally consists of those who have wronged me in some way, people who are dishonest, or people I don't have anything in common with. Not to say I don't forgive because I do...I'm more...say you burn your hand on the stove, you're not going to go right back out and lay your hand on the same stove, right? Someone burns me, I'm going to jump right back in and put myself out there again, I'm going to watch and be cautious of them until I see I was wrong about them or, I was right.
The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable. ~Attributed to James A. Garfield
Truth. I must have the facts - I must have the truth. I rarely believe anything - I am NOT gullible.
I don't lie well. I'm so afraid that if I do, I'll forget I did and I'll spill the truth anyway. Not that I can't keep a secret, I can. It's just tough to lie. If I'm asked anything directly, the truth just falls right out of my mouth before I can even catch it.
That said, I can't force myself to be with people I do not like. I can't put on that falseness to tolerate. I can tolerate, I just can't tolerate someone that I have sorted into the "Nope" group. This group generally consists of those who have wronged me in some way, people who are dishonest, or people I don't have anything in common with. Not to say I don't forgive because I do...I'm more...say you burn your hand on the stove, you're not going to go right back out and lay your hand on the same stove, right? Someone burns me, I'm going to jump right back in and put myself out there again, I'm going to watch and be cautious of them until I see I was wrong about them or, I was right.
The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable. ~Attributed to James A. Garfield
Friday, May 24, 2013
Traits of an Empath #17
17. Finds it impossible to do things they don’t enjoy: As above. Feels like they are living a lie by doing so. To force an empath to do something they dislike through guilt or labelling them as idle will only serve in making them unhappy. It’s for this reason many empaths get labelled as being lazy.
Oh heck yes!
If I don't enjoy what I am doing I am MISERABLE and I will make you MISERABLE to match me. I don't do false very well at all.
Do not guilt me. I HATE being guilted and I will come to resent you for it.
I am rarely idle. Reading to me is not idle. It's recharging my brain. I'm idle when I sleep. My mind is never idle, it's always going mile a minute. I laugh in the face of idle!
Don't call me lazy. I am far from it. If my home isn't neat and tidy, it's because my calendar was full and I let it slide. Like this week - I was busy last week, I was gone over the weekend, busy this past week and now the long weekend came along to help me catch up.
Oh heck yes!
If I don't enjoy what I am doing I am MISERABLE and I will make you MISERABLE to match me. I don't do false very well at all.
Do not guilt me. I HATE being guilted and I will come to resent you for it.
I am rarely idle. Reading to me is not idle. It's recharging my brain. I'm idle when I sleep. My mind is never idle, it's always going mile a minute. I laugh in the face of idle!
Don't call me lazy. I am far from it. If my home isn't neat and tidy, it's because my calendar was full and I let it slide. Like this week - I was busy last week, I was gone over the weekend, busy this past week and now the long weekend came along to help me catch up.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
Traits of an Empath #16
16. Gets bored or distracted easily if not stimulated: Work, school and home life has to be kept interesting for an empath or they switch off from it and end up daydreaming or doodling.
I have the. Shortest. Attention. Span. Ever.
I generally keep a busy calendar. Things to do. Things I'd like to do. My inbox at work must be full because if not, I do get distracted and let things slide. I tend to work better when I am in busy mode. It's easier for me to keep on task to get it done.
I have the. Shortest. Attention. Span. Ever.
I generally keep a busy calendar. Things to do. Things I'd like to do. My inbox at work must be full because if not, I do get distracted and let things slide. I tend to work better when I am in busy mode. It's easier for me to keep on task to get it done.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Traits of an Empath #15
15. Need for solitude: An empath will go stir-crazy if they don’t get quiet
time. This is even obvious in empathic children.
Halfway through! Have you noticed I'm not finding much to disagree with?
I do need solitude. I have a job that demands the attention of 250+ Electronic Engineers. I have to pay very close attention to finances, numbers, people, placement, and a lot of rules. When I get home at night, I. Am. Spent. Burned out. I need quiet.
Most nights, when Jeremy is working, I will go to bed when Jacob goes to bed. This gives me at least 2 hours of quiet in which I can read, meditate, watch TV alone, surf the net, etc. I need this time!
I have also noticed Jacob taking time by himself. Watching some television, or just playing quietly alone.
I am not lonely. Loneliness is not solitude. Solitude is never lonely. The two are very different.
Language... has created the word "loneliness" to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word "solitude" to express the glory of being alone. ~Paul Johannes Tillich
See what I mean?
Halfway through! Have you noticed I'm not finding much to disagree with?
I do need solitude. I have a job that demands the attention of 250+ Electronic Engineers. I have to pay very close attention to finances, numbers, people, placement, and a lot of rules. When I get home at night, I. Am. Spent. Burned out. I need quiet.
Most nights, when Jeremy is working, I will go to bed when Jacob goes to bed. This gives me at least 2 hours of quiet in which I can read, meditate, watch TV alone, surf the net, etc. I need this time!
I have also noticed Jacob taking time by himself. Watching some television, or just playing quietly alone.
I am not lonely. Loneliness is not solitude. Solitude is never lonely. The two are very different.
Language... has created the word "loneliness" to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word "solitude" to express the glory of being alone. ~Paul Johannes Tillich
See what I mean?
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Rest in Peace Grandpoppy
We interrupt our regularly scheduled programming...
Jeremy's Grandpoppy passed away yesterday at the age of 89. I have been saving these photos for this day. He was a very sweet, very kind man. He stole my heart from the moment I met him. In the times we have visited him, I remember just hanging on every word he said. I couldn't get enough of his stories, his conversation. And his smile...
Rest in Peace Grandpoppy
Town square, Vienna, IL with Jeremy's grandmother. We have a photo (somewhere) of Jacob on that same cannon.
One of the stories I loved and could never get enough of, Jeremy's grandfather was a POW in WWII. He was a radio operator/waist gunner on the borrowed craft Sherry's Cherries - shot down en route to Merseberg Germany, November 2, 1944. He and his surviving crew members were captured - 2 were KIA. He told me the story of his elbow or wrist broken in the crash which was fused after he was released. The Doctor's planned to fuse it palm up, Grandpoppy insisted on palm down. He admits that he didn't know everything and should have listened to what they wanted to do. He says he's made due with it but, it was one of many lessons in stubbornness. I always wished he'd tell us more about this time. He did write his story for the family and it's a piece of him, his history that I will forever cherish.
.jpg)
These last two were taken around the last time we saw Grandpoppy, about 5 years ago.
From left: Jeremy's dad, Grandpoppy trying to hold Jacob, and Jeremy. It was on this visit, riding in the car, Jacob looked at Grandpoppy and plain as day said, "Grandpa". It was only one time and he didn't say it again for a long time. Grandpoppy was just a beam - he was so proud!
Traits of an Empath #14
14. Love of nature and animals: Being outdoors in nature is a must for empaths
and pets are an essential part of their life.
Yes and no.
I appreciate outside.
I do not like to BE outside.
I'm an indoor girl. I hate heat. I hate bugs. I said earlier I can't grow things in the dirt.
I do love to watch the birds and the animals and the trees swaying in the breeze.
I am an indoor girl. Crank up the A/C and give me a book!
I posted this and I forgot about the dog! Kelsey. Kelsey is one of the loves of my life. I couldn't imagine a moment without her. She completes out little family unit in a way I never thought possible. She is the source of much laughter, a couple of tears and plenty of farts! Can I say that she can never be replaced? And you know what I love about Kelsey? She reads with me!
Yes and no.
I appreciate outside.
I do not like to BE outside.
I'm an indoor girl. I hate heat. I hate bugs. I said earlier I can't grow things in the dirt.
I do love to watch the birds and the animals and the trees swaying in the breeze.
I am an indoor girl. Crank up the A/C and give me a book!
I posted this and I forgot about the dog! Kelsey. Kelsey is one of the loves of my life. I couldn't imagine a moment without her. She completes out little family unit in a way I never thought possible. She is the source of much laughter, a couple of tears and plenty of farts! Can I say that she can never be replaced? And you know what I love about Kelsey? She reads with me!
Monday, May 20, 2013
Traits of an Empath #13
13. Creative: From singing, dancing, acting, drawing or writing an empath will
have a strong creative streak and a vivid imagination.
This one, I will leave up to your interpretation.
I write here for what that's worth. I sing to my child or in the shower - even in the car. I cannot dance, act or draw and I cannot grow things in dirt.
I can sew. I can craft. My home looks fairly well put together. I can dress myself and not (forgot the not on the first pass) look like an idiot.
I'm venturing into a little more color, safely, venturing. I bought a scarf. My adventure for the year.
This one, I will leave up to your interpretation.
I write here for what that's worth. I sing to my child or in the shower - even in the car. I cannot dance, act or draw and I cannot grow things in dirt.
I can sew. I can craft. My home looks fairly well put together. I can dress myself and not (forgot the not on the first pass) look like an idiot.
I'm venturing into a little more color, safely, venturing. I bought a scarf. My adventure for the year.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Traits of an Empath #12
12. Drawn to healing, holistic therapies and all things metaphysical: Although
many empaths would love to heal others they can end up turning away from being
healers (even though they have a natural ability for it), after they’ve studied
and qualified, because they take on too much from the one they are trying to
heal. Especially if they are unaware of their empathy. Anything of a
supernatural nature is of interest to empaths and they don’t surprise or get
shocked easily. Even at the revelation of what many others would consider
unthinkable, for example, empaths would have known the world was round when
others believed it was flat.
Uh-huh.
Healing. I have no interest in becoming a healer. I don't like pain. I don't like blood. I don't like the emotional stuff that goes with pain - any kind of pain.
I am totally drawn to all things metaphysical. I am always on the look out for a good class to broaden myself, to learn more and to meet other like minds.
Reiki is AMAZING!! I'm leaning toward making it one of my next steps - not for the healing aspect of it but, the spiritual practice of it. We'll see if the stars lead me to it.
There is very little I find shocking or surprising. There are a lot of things which I find VERY interesting and even more things I want to learn more about.
I was telling a friend earlier today that all of this stuff sometimes makes me feel as if I'm a know-it-all, makes me feel as if I have that attitude. I may come across that way but, it's only the certainty of the information I'm given - I wholeheartedly believe in your interpretation. It's tough to not come across as a know it all, when the information I'm given, is given with such certainty.
In some ways, some of what I do now IS healing. A message from a loved one or a message to you about your health or a situation in life, I guess could be taken as healing for the receiver.
That's good enough for me.
Uh-huh.
Healing. I have no interest in becoming a healer. I don't like pain. I don't like blood. I don't like the emotional stuff that goes with pain - any kind of pain.
I am totally drawn to all things metaphysical. I am always on the look out for a good class to broaden myself, to learn more and to meet other like minds.
Reiki is AMAZING!! I'm leaning toward making it one of my next steps - not for the healing aspect of it but, the spiritual practice of it. We'll see if the stars lead me to it.
There is very little I find shocking or surprising. There are a lot of things which I find VERY interesting and even more things I want to learn more about.
I was telling a friend earlier today that all of this stuff sometimes makes me feel as if I'm a know-it-all, makes me feel as if I have that attitude. I may come across that way but, it's only the certainty of the information I'm given - I wholeheartedly believe in your interpretation. It's tough to not come across as a know it all, when the information I'm given, is given with such certainty.
In some ways, some of what I do now IS healing. A message from a loved one or a message to you about your health or a situation in life, I guess could be taken as healing for the receiver.
That's good enough for me.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Traits of an Empath #11
11. Addictive personality: Alcohol, drugs, sex, are to name but a few addictions
that empaths turn to, to block out the emotions of others. It is a form of self
protection in order to hide from someone or something.
Coffee and books. My only true addictions are coffee and books.
I do tend to hide in books. I like being transported somewhere else in a book...maybe to a different era. Take a break from the thoughts of the day.
Books and coffee also cost much less than alcohol which turns my face BRIGHT red, drugs in which I don't care to be in an altered state, gambling would take money away from my books...and that would be really bad.
Coffee and books. My only true addictions are coffee and books.
I do tend to hide in books. I like being transported somewhere else in a book...maybe to a different era. Take a break from the thoughts of the day.
Books and coffee also cost much less than alcohol which turns my face BRIGHT red, drugs in which I don't care to be in an altered state, gambling would take money away from my books...and that would be really bad.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Traits of an Empath #10
10. Constant fatigue: Empaths often get drained of energy, either from energy
vampires or just taking on too much from others, which even sleep will not cure.
Many get diagnosed with ME (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
It's not a secret. I. Am. Always. Tired. Always.
Think about this a minute. I walk around all day, I come into contact with other people and I can't help but feel them, of course that takes my energy which wears me out faster.
When I do readings, they totally wipe me out. It takes a lot of my energy to speak with their energy. I often leave a reading with a splitting headache - or I go into one with the headache from spirit coming/waiting to contact them.
As this stuff is getting stronger, sleep is a little more elusive. Each stage brings a new challenge and usually my sleep changes with each stage. It'll even out again before the next.
My internal alarm is set for about 7AM - I don't generally sleep much past that...even without my little Jacob alarm clock!
All this talk about being tired, I'm ready for a nap!
It's not a secret. I. Am. Always. Tired. Always.
Think about this a minute. I walk around all day, I come into contact with other people and I can't help but feel them, of course that takes my energy which wears me out faster.
When I do readings, they totally wipe me out. It takes a lot of my energy to speak with their energy. I often leave a reading with a splitting headache - or I go into one with the headache from spirit coming/waiting to contact them.
As this stuff is getting stronger, sleep is a little more elusive. Each stage brings a new challenge and usually my sleep changes with each stage. It'll even out again before the next.
My internal alarm is set for about 7AM - I don't generally sleep much past that...even without my little Jacob alarm clock!
All this talk about being tired, I'm ready for a nap!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Traits of an Emapth #9
9. Others will want to offload their problems on you, even strangers: An empath
can become a dumping ground for everyone else’s issues and problems, which, if
they’re not careful can end up as their own.
Have you ever met someone in the grocery store and talked with them a little bit, out of kindness or friendly-ness and you start kicking yourself because they continually miss the cues that the conversation is over?
Happens to me. All. The. Time.
And then I get the hand on my elbow, "You're so easy to talk to!" at which point I'm about to gnaw off said arm to get AWAY!
I, yet again, have to be careful because if I don't let them get to me, I'll want to help them and they'll eventually take advantage of me. Still I don't want to come across as uncaring or snobby, or rude.
This is also a lot of why I don't care to attend "free" things in our area. Our county is one of the poorest in the state and we're one of (if not the) largest county in lower Michigan. A lot of people attend these events and the more people means a bigger drain for me.
That said - my friends, my family, I don't mind listening or helping any of you, at all, ever. I don't mind the emails about ghosts in the bathroom or the 'what does (this) mean" notes, or the "you gotta hear this" stuff. You all have proven (maybe by not even knowing you have) your worth or shown me my benefit of having you in my life. Please don't take offense.
Have you ever met someone in the grocery store and talked with them a little bit, out of kindness or friendly-ness and you start kicking yourself because they continually miss the cues that the conversation is over?
Happens to me. All. The. Time.
And then I get the hand on my elbow, "You're so easy to talk to!" at which point I'm about to gnaw off said arm to get AWAY!
I, yet again, have to be careful because if I don't let them get to me, I'll want to help them and they'll eventually take advantage of me. Still I don't want to come across as uncaring or snobby, or rude.
This is also a lot of why I don't care to attend "free" things in our area. Our county is one of the poorest in the state and we're one of (if not the) largest county in lower Michigan. A lot of people attend these events and the more people means a bigger drain for me.
That said - my friends, my family, I don't mind listening or helping any of you, at all, ever. I don't mind the emails about ghosts in the bathroom or the 'what does (this) mean" notes, or the "you gotta hear this" stuff. You all have proven (maybe by not even knowing you have) your worth or shown me my benefit of having you in my life. Please don't take offense.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Traits of an Empath #8
8. Always looking out for the underdog: Anyone whose suffering, in emotional
pain or being bullied draws an empath’s attention and compassion.
Oh. Hell. Yes.
Ask Jeremy how many times he has heard this: "Jeremy? How can we help them? There has to be something we can do..."
This is yet another reason Gail does not watch the news. Her sappy little heart can't handle the grandmas that get taken advantage of, stories of child abuse, animal neglect or whatever else there is. My big heart just crumbles.
I do often come across as heartless. Really, it's an act. I've learned the automatic response is to "Just say No." Because, I have to say no. If I don't say "No", I'll say "yes" to everything. And if I do say yes, I push my sleeves up, dive in and my bulldozer and I take it over. I can't let myself do that. People get hurt, I spread myself too thin, and then no one is happy and I've made enemies. And then there is Jeremy because after all is said and done, he has to put me back together after the "why don't they care as much as I do", "doesn't this matter to them?" and on and on.
I feed the stray cats (or beg Jeremy to let me) in the neighborhood. I contributed towels and blankets to the oil spill we had here, I've donated jeans to make quilts for soldiers, and I don't know what all else, I just try to fill the need as best I can with what I can. I am truly blessed to have a husband who knows when to reel me back in before I'm out of control.
And that adopt a Christmas family thing we did...we are SO doing that again!! :)
Oh. Hell. Yes.
Ask Jeremy how many times he has heard this: "Jeremy? How can we help them? There has to be something we can do..."
This is yet another reason Gail does not watch the news. Her sappy little heart can't handle the grandmas that get taken advantage of, stories of child abuse, animal neglect or whatever else there is. My big heart just crumbles.
I do often come across as heartless. Really, it's an act. I've learned the automatic response is to "Just say No." Because, I have to say no. If I don't say "No", I'll say "yes" to everything. And if I do say yes, I push my sleeves up, dive in and my bulldozer and I take it over. I can't let myself do that. People get hurt, I spread myself too thin, and then no one is happy and I've made enemies. And then there is Jeremy because after all is said and done, he has to put me back together after the "why don't they care as much as I do", "doesn't this matter to them?" and on and on.
I feed the stray cats (or beg Jeremy to let me) in the neighborhood. I contributed towels and blankets to the oil spill we had here, I've donated jeans to make quilts for soldiers, and I don't know what all else, I just try to fill the need as best I can with what I can. I am truly blessed to have a husband who knows when to reel me back in before I'm out of control.
And that adopt a Christmas family thing we did...we are SO doing that again!! :)
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Traits of an Empath #7
7. Digestive disorders and lower back problems: The solar plexus chakra is based
in the centre of the abdomen and it’s known as the seat of emotions. This is
where empaths feel the incoming emotion of another, which can weaken the area
and eventually lead to anything from stomach ulcers to IBS (too many other
conditions to list here). Lower back problems can develop from being ungrounded
(amongst other things) and one, who has no knowledge of them being an empath,
will almost always be ungrounded.
Um...yeah.
Whenever I get nervous, and I generally get nervous about people or situations, I get this feeling - it's right up where my rib cage comes together, below the breast bone, and it feels like someone has their hand in there, squeezing my guts as hard as they can. This often happens when I know I'm going to see someone that I generally have conflict with.
I had stomach ulcers (3) in my early 20's - they look really cool on the TV screen after they make you drink that chalk juice!
I currently battle with IBS and no, I'm not going to define that. My gallbladder does not like nuts or avocado. Ice cream does not like me. Prewashed lettuce is not a fan and I do NOT eat at a Chinese buffet - EVER (well, there is only one exception - the one close to work is so busy and doesn't bother me).
I have terrible low back pain, almost all of the time. I hurt something while shoveling the driveway the first winter in our house and it hasn't been the same since. I do frequent the chiropractor. I LOVE that man!
I do practice grounding exercises often, generally when I feel a little loopy and aloof. When out walking the dog, I take extra time to acknowledge nature and that helps some.
I'll spare you the rest of the details. You're welcome.
Um...yeah.
Whenever I get nervous, and I generally get nervous about people or situations, I get this feeling - it's right up where my rib cage comes together, below the breast bone, and it feels like someone has their hand in there, squeezing my guts as hard as they can. This often happens when I know I'm going to see someone that I generally have conflict with.
I had stomach ulcers (3) in my early 20's - they look really cool on the TV screen after they make you drink that chalk juice!
I currently battle with IBS and no, I'm not going to define that. My gallbladder does not like nuts or avocado. Ice cream does not like me. Prewashed lettuce is not a fan and I do NOT eat at a Chinese buffet - EVER (well, there is only one exception - the one close to work is so busy and doesn't bother me).
I have terrible low back pain, almost all of the time. I hurt something while shoveling the driveway the first winter in our house and it hasn't been the same since. I do frequent the chiropractor. I LOVE that man!
I do practice grounding exercises often, generally when I feel a little loopy and aloof. When out walking the dog, I take extra time to acknowledge nature and that helps some.
I'll spare you the rest of the details. You're welcome.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Traits of an Empath #6
6. Picking up physical symptoms off another: An empath will almost always
develop the ailments off another (colds, eye infections, body aches and pains)
especially those they’re closest to, somewhat like sympathy pains.
If this were totally true, I'd be dead.
There is one person I know who has every ache, every pain, every cold requires an antibiotic, every sniffle is the plague, all scratches are festering wounds and everything must be broadcast. This one has the Dr. on speed dial! You can hear death over the phone! If I picked up every ailment, ugh, just bury me already.
I keep hand sanitizer close to me (on my desk, in my car, in my purse). I wash my hands often. I try not to use public restrooms. I don't touch the bathroom door at work. I don't touch things that don't need to be touched. I clean my bathroom. I use the Lysol liberally in my home. Quite. Liberally.
I have plenty of my own aches and pains anymore (hell, I'm pushing 40!) but, I don't often discuss them. I catch a cold now and then. I have some trouble with my gall bladder if I eat avocado or nuts so I don't eat avocado or nuts. And I hate the Dr. office so if I can avoid him, I do. Thankfully, Jeremy has most of the same pains so no need to feel his too!
Though if Jacob is sick and throwing up, I will join him. Not in sympathy sickness but, I am a sympathy puker. If I hear it or smell it, I'll do it!
I do not like sickness. I will do most anything I can to avoid it.
If this were totally true, I'd be dead.
There is one person I know who has every ache, every pain, every cold requires an antibiotic, every sniffle is the plague, all scratches are festering wounds and everything must be broadcast. This one has the Dr. on speed dial! You can hear death over the phone! If I picked up every ailment, ugh, just bury me already.
I keep hand sanitizer close to me (on my desk, in my car, in my purse). I wash my hands often. I try not to use public restrooms. I don't touch the bathroom door at work. I don't touch things that don't need to be touched. I clean my bathroom. I use the Lysol liberally in my home. Quite. Liberally.
I have plenty of my own aches and pains anymore (hell, I'm pushing 40!) but, I don't often discuss them. I catch a cold now and then. I have some trouble with my gall bladder if I eat avocado or nuts so I don't eat avocado or nuts. And I hate the Dr. office so if I can avoid him, I do. Thankfully, Jeremy has most of the same pains so no need to feel his too!
Though if Jacob is sick and throwing up, I will join him. Not in sympathy sickness but, I am a sympathy puker. If I hear it or smell it, I'll do it!
I do not like sickness. I will do most anything I can to avoid it.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Traits of an Empath #5
5. You know when someone is not being honest: If a friend or a loved one is
telling you lies you know it (although many empaths try not to focus on this
because knowing a loved one is lying can be painful). Or if someone is saying
one thing but feeling/thinking another, you know.
I have known this one ALL of my life. And it is true - at one time in my life I did try very hard not to focus on it because I didn't want to believe that someone I loved was lying to me.
I struggle with lying/lies/liars. I am not a good liar. I don't like to lie. Not only because it's wrong but, because I forget if I lied and I eventually speak the truth so, if I lied, I'm in trouble because I outed myself.
I usually know if someone is lying to me. Mostly it's common sense. If what you're telling me doesn't add up, you're likely lying. If you won't look at me, chances are you're lying. If you avoid me, yep lying again.
And don't tell me that you're fine, if you're not. I'll know that too.
I have known this one ALL of my life. And it is true - at one time in my life I did try very hard not to focus on it because I didn't want to believe that someone I loved was lying to me.
I struggle with lying/lies/liars. I am not a good liar. I don't like to lie. Not only because it's wrong but, because I forget if I lied and I eventually speak the truth so, if I lied, I'm in trouble because I outed myself.
I usually know if someone is lying to me. Mostly it's common sense. If what you're telling me doesn't add up, you're likely lying. If you won't look at me, chances are you're lying. If you avoid me, yep lying again.
And don't tell me that you're fine, if you're not. I'll know that too.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Traits of an Empath #4
4. Watching violence, cruelty or tragedy on the TV is unbearable: The more
attuned an empath becomes the worse it is and may make it so they eventually
have to stop watching TV and reading newspapers altogether.
I do not watch the news. I do not watch murder trials. I did not watch the coverage of Sandy Hook, the Boston Marathon, or anything else. Thankfully, I have a job where there is no TV.
I read the newspaper for the foreclosure section or the coupons.
I can't handle all of the bad news. If something happens, I'll find the news online, read what I need to know and I'm done. I will always choose to read my news. I am well aware of current events.
I do not watch scary movies. I never have. I likely never will. The blood and the gore (realistic or not) is too much for me to take. The screaming kills my ears.
I do not read crime dramas or mysteries. I get too hung up on what could possibly happen to me. I read to get lost in a story, not to figure out who killed Colonel Mustard in the Dining Room with a candle stick.
I am absolutely terrified of serial killers. I know the odds and I just can't help it. It the fact that they are so mentally askew to do such evil things and my mind can't comprehend.
I do watch some TV but, I'm quite selective. I like to fall asleep to food programs or cheesy 80's sitcoms. I watch more history type programs or goofy reality shows. I like restoration type shows as well - homes, vehicles or even little type things. At my house we call it "safe TV". TV that Gail can watch without reaction, because she does react and she reacts strongly.
I do not watch politics either. See above. I almost always have an opinion. Generally a very strong opinion.
Now, let me say I do enjoy me some police drama. It started with Hill Street Blues (man, that theme song still chokes me up!), to Third Watch to CSI: to Blue Bloods. What will they give me next??
I do not watch the news. I do not watch murder trials. I did not watch the coverage of Sandy Hook, the Boston Marathon, or anything else. Thankfully, I have a job where there is no TV.
I read the newspaper for the foreclosure section or the coupons.
I can't handle all of the bad news. If something happens, I'll find the news online, read what I need to know and I'm done. I will always choose to read my news. I am well aware of current events.
I do not watch scary movies. I never have. I likely never will. The blood and the gore (realistic or not) is too much for me to take. The screaming kills my ears.
I do not read crime dramas or mysteries. I get too hung up on what could possibly happen to me. I read to get lost in a story, not to figure out who killed Colonel Mustard in the Dining Room with a candle stick.
I am absolutely terrified of serial killers. I know the odds and I just can't help it. It the fact that they are so mentally askew to do such evil things and my mind can't comprehend.
I do watch some TV but, I'm quite selective. I like to fall asleep to food programs or cheesy 80's sitcoms. I watch more history type programs or goofy reality shows. I like restoration type shows as well - homes, vehicles or even little type things. At my house we call it "safe TV". TV that Gail can watch without reaction, because she does react and she reacts strongly.
I do not watch politics either. See above. I almost always have an opinion. Generally a very strong opinion.
Now, let me say I do enjoy me some police drama. It started with Hill Street Blues (man, that theme song still chokes me up!), to Third Watch to CSI: to Blue Bloods. What will they give me next??
Friday, May 10, 2013
Traits of an Empath #3
Three days in and I'm already doing makeup posts, how typical of me! Honestly, I haven't blogged from the new computer yet and this computer..is...well..it's old, it's comfortable and I like it.
3. Feeling others emotions and taking them on as your own: This is a huge one for empaths. To some they will feel emotions off those near by and with others they will feel emotions from those a vast distance away, or both. The more adept empath will know if someone is having bad thoughts about them, even from great distance.
This kind of goes with number 2 but, it's difficult for me to separate my feelings from someone else's. It's very easy for me to follow or mimic someone else's feelings. If I'm with someone who is sad or depressed, I begin feeling sad or depressed. If someone complains about their relationship with their spouse, I begin to pick out those same things from mine. It's always easiest to be unhappy.
It's tough to love someone (a friend, a member of your family, a spouse) who is always negative, always sad, always bringing you down to their level. It's tough to overcome that, to try to bring them up, to not let them get to you. It's a hard line to follow, do you let them go to improve your state of mind, do you keep them out of love and how much love is enough?
For me, it's always hard when someone is hurt. I do feel their hurt. I want to fix it. Often times the resolution is within them. That said, I generally know if someone is thinking badly of me. Even those of you who think I'm slightly batty...trust me...I know!
3. Feeling others emotions and taking them on as your own: This is a huge one for empaths. To some they will feel emotions off those near by and with others they will feel emotions from those a vast distance away, or both. The more adept empath will know if someone is having bad thoughts about them, even from great distance.
This kind of goes with number 2 but, it's difficult for me to separate my feelings from someone else's. It's very easy for me to follow or mimic someone else's feelings. If I'm with someone who is sad or depressed, I begin feeling sad or depressed. If someone complains about their relationship with their spouse, I begin to pick out those same things from mine. It's always easiest to be unhappy.
It's tough to love someone (a friend, a member of your family, a spouse) who is always negative, always sad, always bringing you down to their level. It's tough to overcome that, to try to bring them up, to not let them get to you. It's a hard line to follow, do you let them go to improve your state of mind, do you keep them out of love and how much love is enough?
For me, it's always hard when someone is hurt. I do feel their hurt. I want to fix it. Often times the resolution is within them. That said, I generally know if someone is thinking badly of me. Even those of you who think I'm slightly batty...trust me...I know!
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Traits of an Empath #2
2. Being in public places can be overwhelming: Places like shopping malls, supermarkets or stadiums where there are lots of people around can fill the empath with turbulently vex emotions that are coming from others.
True. True. So very 100% true.
I have been to one concert in my life. I will not go to another. I despise the mall. If I have to go, I park nearest the store I need, I go in, go to that store and I get right back out. The grocery store has to be quick and I'm a little picky about where I shop. I always have a list. I prefer the smaller, hometowny stores over the big box.
I don't like busy restaurants, busy roads, or big cities. I don't care for festivals or big celebrations - ugh the fair! If we go, we go really early and get it over with or when we go to the fair, we generally go on senior citizens day. It tends to be a bit more laid back. Those seniors don't run around, dragging 10 screaming kids behind them and the best thing about seniors - they aren't negative, they just don't give a shit. I can handle that!
All of these things, these places - all the people are completely overwhelming for me. I get really worked up from all of the energy flying around. I get anxious with all of the people who let their kids run wild and free. I get angry with the rudeness and the sense of entitlement in people. I seem to really notice or pick up on it in these situations. Granted with so many people in one place, it is magnified, doubled, tripled or more.
To me, to my mind, my emotions, it's like having a hundred sad people crying and trying to tell me their story all at very same time. I can't make them stop, or wait their turn, and they won't leave me alone. I can't fix what is making them sad and I can't distinguish any one single voice from the 99 others. An Empath is always drawn to sadness. Someone sad or negative can reel us in faster than someone who is positive and in public there are so many more Negative Nancys.
I can't live as a hermit - though I would love to - so I do brave the public and I do subject myself to a few large events per year. I'm learning to block that negativity from myself in those situations but, even blocking, I don't last but a few hours and I am totally BEAT at the end. I also generally come home with a splitting headache from fighting to keep the energy off.
This doesn't upset me. I don't miss these things. As we get further into these traits, you'll begin to understand why.
True. True. So very 100% true.
I have been to one concert in my life. I will not go to another. I despise the mall. If I have to go, I park nearest the store I need, I go in, go to that store and I get right back out. The grocery store has to be quick and I'm a little picky about where I shop. I always have a list. I prefer the smaller, hometowny stores over the big box.
I don't like busy restaurants, busy roads, or big cities. I don't care for festivals or big celebrations - ugh the fair! If we go, we go really early and get it over with or when we go to the fair, we generally go on senior citizens day. It tends to be a bit more laid back. Those seniors don't run around, dragging 10 screaming kids behind them and the best thing about seniors - they aren't negative, they just don't give a shit. I can handle that!
All of these things, these places - all the people are completely overwhelming for me. I get really worked up from all of the energy flying around. I get anxious with all of the people who let their kids run wild and free. I get angry with the rudeness and the sense of entitlement in people. I seem to really notice or pick up on it in these situations. Granted with so many people in one place, it is magnified, doubled, tripled or more.
To me, to my mind, my emotions, it's like having a hundred sad people crying and trying to tell me their story all at very same time. I can't make them stop, or wait their turn, and they won't leave me alone. I can't fix what is making them sad and I can't distinguish any one single voice from the 99 others. An Empath is always drawn to sadness. Someone sad or negative can reel us in faster than someone who is positive and in public there are so many more Negative Nancys.
I can't live as a hermit - though I would love to - so I do brave the public and I do subject myself to a few large events per year. I'm learning to block that negativity from myself in those situations but, even blocking, I don't last but a few hours and I am totally BEAT at the end. I also generally come home with a splitting headache from fighting to keep the energy off.
This doesn't upset me. I don't miss these things. As we get further into these traits, you'll begin to understand why.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Traits of an Empath #1
1. Knowing: Empaths just know stuff, without being told. It’s a knowing that goes way beyond intuition or gut feelings, even though that is how many would describe the knowing. The more attuned they are the stron...ger this gift becomes.
I know things. I know things that I can't explain how or why I know. I just know. It's like there is this voice in my head whispering answers to me. When I meet people, I instantly know if I like them or not, and in what capacity. I generally know why I do not like someone and there are some that are good hiders and it takes me a minute to figure out why I do not like them but, I know there is something that just isn't quite right.
This knowing, it isn't just a hunch. It's deep down, to the core knowing. The kind of knowing that you feel in your bones. It's consuming. It's overwhelming. It's like you have all the facts and you're certain you are correct. The cards have been dealt. It's all there in front of you.
There isn't any way to hide from it, this knowing. And to look at you, I wouldn't know specifically that you're sleeping with your husband's brother but, I would know there is something off about you, you may seem disloyal to me or not trustworthy, or maybe a knowing you are not who you appear to be (hiding something) but, I won't know the exact detail.
It's rare for me to meet people and warm to them instantly. There are a few and I can name them but, until I wade through my feelings and can categorize you (doesn't that sound awful?), I'm a lot standoffish.
I'm thinking back to talks my mom and I had about meeting "the right one". She always told me, "Gail, when you meet the right one, you'll just know." and I remember asking, "How? How will I know.". Her answer was always without fail, "You'll just know." She was right. When I met Jeremy, I just knew. I knew I was going to spend the rest of my life with him (he took a little longer to convince!)
It's really that simple. I just know.
I know things. I know things that I can't explain how or why I know. I just know. It's like there is this voice in my head whispering answers to me. When I meet people, I instantly know if I like them or not, and in what capacity. I generally know why I do not like someone and there are some that are good hiders and it takes me a minute to figure out why I do not like them but, I know there is something that just isn't quite right.
This knowing, it isn't just a hunch. It's deep down, to the core knowing. The kind of knowing that you feel in your bones. It's consuming. It's overwhelming. It's like you have all the facts and you're certain you are correct. The cards have been dealt. It's all there in front of you.
There isn't any way to hide from it, this knowing. And to look at you, I wouldn't know specifically that you're sleeping with your husband's brother but, I would know there is something off about you, you may seem disloyal to me or not trustworthy, or maybe a knowing you are not who you appear to be (hiding something) but, I won't know the exact detail.
It's rare for me to meet people and warm to them instantly. There are a few and I can name them but, until I wade through my feelings and can categorize you (doesn't that sound awful?), I'm a lot standoffish.
I'm thinking back to talks my mom and I had about meeting "the right one". She always told me, "Gail, when you meet the right one, you'll just know." and I remember asking, "How? How will I know.". Her answer was always without fail, "You'll just know." She was right. When I met Jeremy, I just knew. I knew I was going to spend the rest of my life with him (he took a little longer to convince!)
It's really that simple. I just know.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Traits of an Empath (me)!
I saw this on Facebook a few days ago and I'm sharing it here mostly because I want to save this for future reference but, feel free to read and get a glimpse of what it is like to be...me!
I think I'm going to break this out into a blogging challenge over the next 30 days. I'll take each trait and explain how it relates to me. Again, this is mostly for my reference but, as always you may follow along if you like.
I think I'm going to break this out into a blogging challenge over the next 30 days. I'll take each trait and explain how it relates to me. Again, this is mostly for my reference but, as always you may follow along if you like.
30 traits of an Empath
1. Knowing: Empaths just know stuff, without being told. It’s a knowing that goes way beyond intuition or gut feelings, even though that is how many would describe the knowing. The more attuned they are the stron...ger this gift becomes.
2. Being in public places can be overwhelming: Places like shopping malls, supermarkets or stadiums where there are lots of people around can fill the empath with turbulently vexed emotions that are coming from others.
3. Feeling others emotions and taking them on as your own: This is a huge one for empaths. To some they will feel emotions off those near by and with others they will feel emotions from those a vast distance away, or both. The more adept empath will know if someone is having bad thoughts about them, even from great distance.
4. Watching violence, cruelty or tragedy on the TV is unbearable: The more attuned an empath becomes the worse it is and may make it so they eventually have to stop watching TV and reading newspapers altogether.
5. You know when someone is not being honest: If a friend or a loved one is telling you lies you know it (although many empaths try not to focus on this because knowing a loved one is lying can be painful). Or if someone is saying one thing but feeling/thinking another, you know.
6. Picking up physical symptoms off another: An empath will almost always develop the ailments off another (colds, eye infections, body aches and pains) especially those they’re closest to, somewhat like sympathy pains.
7. Digestive disorders and lower back problems: The solar plexus chakra is based in the centre of the abdomen and it’s known as the seat of emotions. This is where empaths feel the incoming emotion of another, which can weaken the area and eventually lead to anything from stomach ulcers to IBS (too many other conditions to list here). Lower back problems can develop from being ungrounded (amongst other things) and one, who has no knowledge of them being an empath, will almost always be ungrounded.
8. Always looking out for the underdog: Anyone whose suffering, in emotional pain or being bullied draws an empath’s attention and compassion.
9. Others will want to offload their problems on you, even strangers: An empath can become a dumping ground for everyone else’s issues and problems, which, if they’re not careful can end up as their own.
10. Constant fatigue: Empaths often get drained of energy, either from energy vampires or just taking on too much from others, which even sleep will not cure. Many get diagnosed with ME.
11. Addictive personality: Alcohol, drugs, sex, are to name but a few addictions that empaths turn to, to block out the emotions of others. It is a form of self protection in order to hide from someone or something.
12. Drawn to healing, holistic therapies and all things metaphysical: Although many empaths would love to heal others they can end up turning away from being healers (even though they have a natural ability for it), after they’ve studied and qualified, because they take on too much from the one they are trying to heal. Especially if they are unaware of their empathy. Anything of a supernatural nature is of interest to empaths and they don’t surprise or get shocked easily. Even at the revelation of what many others would consider unthinkable, for example, empaths would have known the world was round when others believed it was flat.
13. Creative: From singing, dancing, acting, drawing or writing an empath will have a strong creative streak and a vivid imagination.
14. Love of nature and animals: Being outdoors in nature is a must for empaths and pets are an essential part of their life.
15. Need for solitude: An empath will go stir-crazy if they don’t get quiet time. This is even obvious in empathic children.
16. Gets bored or distracted easily if not stimulated: Work, school and home life has to be kept interesting for an empath or they switch off from it and end up daydreaming or doodling.
17. Finds it impossible to do things they don’t enjoy: As above. Feels like they are living a lie by doing so. To force an empath to do something they dislike through guilt or labelling them as idle will only serve in making them unhappy. It’s for this reason many empaths get labelled as being lazy.
18. Strives for the truth: This becomes more prevalent when an empath discovers his/her gifts and birthright. Anything untruthful feels plain wrong.
19. Always looking for the answers and knowledge: To have unanswered questions can be frustrating for an empath and they will endeavour to find an explanation. If they have a knowing about something they will look for confirmation. The downside to this is an information overload.
20. Likes adventure, freedom and travel: Empaths are free spirits.
21. Abhors clutter: It makes an empath feel weighed down and blocks the flow of energy.
22. Loves to daydream: An empath can stare into space for hours, in a world of their own and blissfully happy.
23. Finds routine, rules or control, imprisoning: Anything that takes away their freedom is debilitating to an empath even poisoning.
24. Prone to carry weight without necessarily overeating: The excess weight is a form of protection to stop the negative incoming energies having as much impact.
25. Excellent listener: An empath won’t talk about themselves much unless it’s to someone they really trust. They love to learn and know about others and genuinely care.
26. Intolerance to narcissism: Although kind and often very tolerant of others, empaths do not like to be around overly egotistical people, who put themselves first and refuse to consider another’s feelings or points of view other than their own.
27. The ability to feel the days of the week: An empath will get the ‘Friday Feeling’ if they work Fridays or not. They pick up on how the collective are feeling. The first couple of days of a long, bank holiday weekend (Easter for example) can feel, to them, like the world is smiling, calm and relaxed. Sunday evenings, Mondays and Tuesdays, of a working week, have a very heavy feeling.
28. Will not choose to buy antiques, vintage or second-hand: Anything that’s been pre-owned carries the energy of the previous owner. An empath will even prefer to have a brand new car or house (if they are in the financial situation to do so) with no residual energy.
29. Sense the energy of food: Many empaths don’t like to eat meat or poultry because they can feel the vibrations of the animal (especially if the animal suffered), even if they like the taste.
30. Can appear moody, shy, aloof, disconnected: Depending on how an empath is feeling will depend on what face they show to the world. They can be prone to mood swings and if they’ve taken on too much negative will appear quiet and unsociable, even miserable. An empath detests having to pretend to be happy when they’re sad, this only adds to their load (makes working in the service industry, when it’s service with a smile, very challenging) and can make them feel like scuttling under a stone.
If you can say yes to most or all of the above then you are most definitely an empath
Empaths are having a particularly difficult time at the present time, picking up on all the negative emotions that are being emantated into the world from the populace.
TRAITS OF AN EMPATH by Christel Broederlow
Empaths are often quiet achievers. They can take a while to handle a compliment for they’re more inclined to point out another’s positive attributes. They are highly expressive in all areas of emotional connection, and talk openly, and, at times quite frankly. They may have few problems talking about their feelings if another cares to listen (regardless of how much they listen to others).
However, they can be the exact opposite: reclusive and apparently unresponsive at the best of times. They may even appear ignorant. Some are very good at “blocking out” others and that’s not always a bad thing, at least for the learning empath struggling with a barrage of emotions from others, as well as their own feelings.
Empaths have a tendency to openly feel what is outside of them more so than what is inside of them. This can cause empaths to ignore their own needs. In general an empath is non-violent, non-aggressive and leans more towards being the peacemaker. Any area filled with disharmony creates an uncomfortable feeling in an empath. If they find themselves in the middle of a confrontation, they will endeavor to settle the situation as quickly as possible, if not avoid it all together. If any harsh words are expressed in defending themselves, they will likely resent their lack of self-control, and have a preference to peacefully resolve the problem quickly.
Empaths are more inclined to pick up another’s feelings and project it back without realizing its origin in the first place. Talking things out is a major factor in releasing emotions in the learning empath. Empaths can develop an even stronger degree of understanding so that they can find peace in most situations. The downside is that empaths may bottle up emotions and build barriers sky-high so as to not let others know of their innermost thoughts and/or feelings. This withholding of emotional expression can be a direct result of a traumatic experience, an expressionless upbringing, or simply being told as a child, “Children are meant to be seen and not heard!”
Without a doubt, this emotional withholding can be detrimental to one’s health, for the longer one’s thoughts and/or emotions aren’t released, the more power they build. The thoughts and/or emotions can eventually becoming explosive, if not crippling. The need to express oneself honestly is a form of healing and a choice open to all. To not do so can result in a breakdown of the person and result in mental/emotional instability or the creation of a physical ailment, illness or disease.
Empaths are sensitive to TV, videos, movies, news and broadcasts. Violence or emotional dramas depicting shocking scenes of physical or emotional pain inflicted on adults, children or animals can bring an empath easily to tears. At times, they may feel physically ill or choke back the tears. Some empaths will struggle to comprehend any such cruelty, and may have grave difficulty in expressing themselves in the face of another’s ignorance, closed-mindedness and obvious lack of compassion. They simply cannot justify the suffering they feel and see.
You will find empaths working with people, animals or nature with a true passion and dedication to help them. They are often tireless teachers and/or caretakers for our environment and all within it. Many volunteers are empathic and give up personal time to help others without pay and/or recognition.
Empaths may be excellent storytellers due to an endless imagination, inquisitive minds and ever-expanding knowledge. They can be old romantics at heart and very gentle. They may also be the “keepers” of ancestral knowledge and family history. If not the obvious family historians, they may be the ones who listen to the stories passed down and possess the majority of the family history. Not surprisingly, they may have started or possess a family tree.
They have a broad interest in music to suit their many expressive temperaments, and others can query how empaths can listen to one style of music, and within minutes, change to something entirely different. Lyrics within a song can have adverse, powerful effects on empaths, especially if it is relevant to a recent experience. In these moments, it is advisable for empaths to listen to music without lyrics, to avoid playing havoc with their emotions!
They are just as expressive with body language as with words, thoughts, and feelings. Their creativity is often expressed through dance, acting, and bodily movements. Empaths can project an incredible amount of energy portraying and/or releasing emotion. Empaths can become lost in the music, to the point of being in a trance-like state; they become one with the music through the expression of their physical bodies. They describe this feeling as a time when all else around them is almost non-existent.
People of all walks of life and animals are attracted to the warmth and genuine compassion of empaths. Regardless of whether others are aware of one being empathic, people are drawn to them as a metal object is to a magnet!
Even complete strangers find it easy to talk to empaths about the most personal things, and before they know it, they have poured out their hearts and souls without intending to do so consciously. It is as though on a sub-conscious level that person knows instinctively that empaths would listen with compassionate understanding. Then again, for empaths, it is always nice to actually be heard themselves!
Here are the listeners of life. They can be outgoing, bubbly, enthusiastic and a joy to be in the presence of, as well as highly humorous at the most unusual moments! On the flip side, empaths can be weighted with mood swings that will have others around them want to jump overboard and abandon ship! The thoughts and feelings empaths receive from any and all in their life can be so overwhelming (if not understood) that their moods can fluctuate with lightning speed. One moment they may be delightfully happy and with a flick of the switch, miserable.
Abandoning an empath in the throes of alternating moods can create detrimental effects. A simple return of empathic love–listening and caring compassionately without bias, judgment and/or condemnation–can go an incredibly long way to an empath’s instant recovery. Many empaths don’t understand what is occurring within them. They literally have no idea that another person’s emotions are now felt, as one’s own and reflected outwardly. They are confused as to how one moment all was well, and then the next, they feel so depressed, alone, etc. The need to understand the possibilities of empath connection is a vital part of the empaths journey for themselves and for those around them.
Empaths are often problem solvers, thinkers, and studiers of many things. As far as empaths are concerned, where a problem is, so too is the answer. They often will search until they find one – if only for peace of mind. This can certainly prove beneficial for others in their relationships, in the workplace, or on the home front. Where there is a will, there is a way and the empath will find it. The empath can literally (likely without the knowledge of what’s actually occurring) tap into Universal Knowledge and be receptive to guidance in solving anything they put their head and hearts into.
Empaths often are vivid and/or lucid dreamers. They can dream in detail and are inquisitive of dream content. Often they feel as though the dreams are linked to their physical life somehow, and not just a mumble of nonsensical, irrelevant, meaningless images. This curiosity will lead many empathic dreamers to unravel some of the “mysterious” dream contents from an early age and connect the interpretation to its relevance in their physical life. If not, they may be led to dream interpretations through other means.
Empaths are daydreamers with difficulty keeping focused on the mundane. If life isn’t stimulating, off an empath will go into a detached state of mind. They will go somewhere, anywhere, in a thought that appears detached from the physical reality, yet is alive and active for they really are off and away. If a tutor is lecturing with little to no emotional input, empaths will not be receptive to such teaching and can (unintentionally) drift into a state of daydreaming.
Give the empath student the tutor who speaks with stimuli and emotion (through actual experience of any given subject) and the empath is receptively alert. Empaths are a captivated audience. This same principle applies in acting. An actor will either captivate the audience through expressing (in all aspects) emotions (as though they really did experience the role they are portraying) or will loose them entirely. Empaths make outstanding actors.
Empaths frequently experience déjà vu and synchronicities. What may initially start as, “Oh, what a coincidence”, will lead to the understanding of synchronicities as an aspect of who they are. These synchronicities will become a welcomed and continually expanding occurrence. As an understanding of self grows, the synchronicities become more fluent and free flowing. The synchronicities can promote a feeling of euphoria as empaths identify with them and appreciate the connection to their empathic nature.
Empaths are most likely to have had varying paranormal experiences throughout their lives. NDE’s (Near death experiences) and or OBE’s (Out of body experiences) can catapult an unaware empath into the awakening period and provide the momentum for a journey of discovery. Those who get caught up in life, in society’s often dictating ways, in work etc., can become lost in a mechanical way of living that provides very little meaning. All “signs of guidance” are ignored to shift out of this state of “doing”. A path to being whole again becomes evident and a search for more meaning in one’s life begins.
These types of experiences appear dramatic, can be life-altering indeed, and are most assuredly just as intensely memorable in years to come. They are the voice of guidance encouraging us to pursue our journey in awareness. Sometimes, some of us require that extra assistance!
For some empaths, the lack of outside understanding towards paranormal events they experience, may lead to suppressing such abilities. (Most of these abilities are very natural and not a coincidence.) Empaths may unknowingly adopt the positive or negative attitude of others as their own. (This, however, can be overcome.) Empaths may need to follow interests in the paranormal and the unexplained with curiosity so as to explain and accept their life circumstances.
Words © Christel Broederlow
Source: theknowing1.wordpress.com
1. Knowing: Empaths just know stuff, without being told. It’s a knowing that goes way beyond intuition or gut feelings, even though that is how many would describe the knowing. The more attuned they are the stron...ger this gift becomes.
2. Being in public places can be overwhelming: Places like shopping malls, supermarkets or stadiums where there are lots of people around can fill the empath with turbulently vexed emotions that are coming from others.
3. Feeling others emotions and taking them on as your own: This is a huge one for empaths. To some they will feel emotions off those near by and with others they will feel emotions from those a vast distance away, or both. The more adept empath will know if someone is having bad thoughts about them, even from great distance.
4. Watching violence, cruelty or tragedy on the TV is unbearable: The more attuned an empath becomes the worse it is and may make it so they eventually have to stop watching TV and reading newspapers altogether.
5. You know when someone is not being honest: If a friend or a loved one is telling you lies you know it (although many empaths try not to focus on this because knowing a loved one is lying can be painful). Or if someone is saying one thing but feeling/thinking another, you know.
6. Picking up physical symptoms off another: An empath will almost always develop the ailments off another (colds, eye infections, body aches and pains) especially those they’re closest to, somewhat like sympathy pains.
7. Digestive disorders and lower back problems: The solar plexus chakra is based in the centre of the abdomen and it’s known as the seat of emotions. This is where empaths feel the incoming emotion of another, which can weaken the area and eventually lead to anything from stomach ulcers to IBS (too many other conditions to list here). Lower back problems can develop from being ungrounded (amongst other things) and one, who has no knowledge of them being an empath, will almost always be ungrounded.
8. Always looking out for the underdog: Anyone whose suffering, in emotional pain or being bullied draws an empath’s attention and compassion.
9. Others will want to offload their problems on you, even strangers: An empath can become a dumping ground for everyone else’s issues and problems, which, if they’re not careful can end up as their own.
10. Constant fatigue: Empaths often get drained of energy, either from energy vampires or just taking on too much from others, which even sleep will not cure. Many get diagnosed with ME.
11. Addictive personality: Alcohol, drugs, sex, are to name but a few addictions that empaths turn to, to block out the emotions of others. It is a form of self protection in order to hide from someone or something.
12. Drawn to healing, holistic therapies and all things metaphysical: Although many empaths would love to heal others they can end up turning away from being healers (even though they have a natural ability for it), after they’ve studied and qualified, because they take on too much from the one they are trying to heal. Especially if they are unaware of their empathy. Anything of a supernatural nature is of interest to empaths and they don’t surprise or get shocked easily. Even at the revelation of what many others would consider unthinkable, for example, empaths would have known the world was round when others believed it was flat.
13. Creative: From singing, dancing, acting, drawing or writing an empath will have a strong creative streak and a vivid imagination.
14. Love of nature and animals: Being outdoors in nature is a must for empaths and pets are an essential part of their life.
15. Need for solitude: An empath will go stir-crazy if they don’t get quiet time. This is even obvious in empathic children.
16. Gets bored or distracted easily if not stimulated: Work, school and home life has to be kept interesting for an empath or they switch off from it and end up daydreaming or doodling.
17. Finds it impossible to do things they don’t enjoy: As above. Feels like they are living a lie by doing so. To force an empath to do something they dislike through guilt or labelling them as idle will only serve in making them unhappy. It’s for this reason many empaths get labelled as being lazy.
18. Strives for the truth: This becomes more prevalent when an empath discovers his/her gifts and birthright. Anything untruthful feels plain wrong.
19. Always looking for the answers and knowledge: To have unanswered questions can be frustrating for an empath and they will endeavour to find an explanation. If they have a knowing about something they will look for confirmation. The downside to this is an information overload.
20. Likes adventure, freedom and travel: Empaths are free spirits.
21. Abhors clutter: It makes an empath feel weighed down and blocks the flow of energy.
22. Loves to daydream: An empath can stare into space for hours, in a world of their own and blissfully happy.
23. Finds routine, rules or control, imprisoning: Anything that takes away their freedom is debilitating to an empath even poisoning.
24. Prone to carry weight without necessarily overeating: The excess weight is a form of protection to stop the negative incoming energies having as much impact.
25. Excellent listener: An empath won’t talk about themselves much unless it’s to someone they really trust. They love to learn and know about others and genuinely care.
26. Intolerance to narcissism: Although kind and often very tolerant of others, empaths do not like to be around overly egotistical people, who put themselves first and refuse to consider another’s feelings or points of view other than their own.
27. The ability to feel the days of the week: An empath will get the ‘Friday Feeling’ if they work Fridays or not. They pick up on how the collective are feeling. The first couple of days of a long, bank holiday weekend (Easter for example) can feel, to them, like the world is smiling, calm and relaxed. Sunday evenings, Mondays and Tuesdays, of a working week, have a very heavy feeling.
28. Will not choose to buy antiques, vintage or second-hand: Anything that’s been pre-owned carries the energy of the previous owner. An empath will even prefer to have a brand new car or house (if they are in the financial situation to do so) with no residual energy.
29. Sense the energy of food: Many empaths don’t like to eat meat or poultry because they can feel the vibrations of the animal (especially if the animal suffered), even if they like the taste.
30. Can appear moody, shy, aloof, disconnected: Depending on how an empath is feeling will depend on what face they show to the world. They can be prone to mood swings and if they’ve taken on too much negative will appear quiet and unsociable, even miserable. An empath detests having to pretend to be happy when they’re sad, this only adds to their load (makes working in the service industry, when it’s service with a smile, very challenging) and can make them feel like scuttling under a stone.
If you can say yes to most or all of the above then you are most definitely an empath
Empaths are having a particularly difficult time at the present time, picking up on all the negative emotions that are being emantated into the world from the populace.
TRAITS OF AN EMPATH by Christel Broederlow
Empaths are often quiet achievers. They can take a while to handle a compliment for they’re more inclined to point out another’s positive attributes. They are highly expressive in all areas of emotional connection, and talk openly, and, at times quite frankly. They may have few problems talking about their feelings if another cares to listen (regardless of how much they listen to others).
However, they can be the exact opposite: reclusive and apparently unresponsive at the best of times. They may even appear ignorant. Some are very good at “blocking out” others and that’s not always a bad thing, at least for the learning empath struggling with a barrage of emotions from others, as well as their own feelings.
Empaths have a tendency to openly feel what is outside of them more so than what is inside of them. This can cause empaths to ignore their own needs. In general an empath is non-violent, non-aggressive and leans more towards being the peacemaker. Any area filled with disharmony creates an uncomfortable feeling in an empath. If they find themselves in the middle of a confrontation, they will endeavor to settle the situation as quickly as possible, if not avoid it all together. If any harsh words are expressed in defending themselves, they will likely resent their lack of self-control, and have a preference to peacefully resolve the problem quickly.
Empaths are more inclined to pick up another’s feelings and project it back without realizing its origin in the first place. Talking things out is a major factor in releasing emotions in the learning empath. Empaths can develop an even stronger degree of understanding so that they can find peace in most situations. The downside is that empaths may bottle up emotions and build barriers sky-high so as to not let others know of their innermost thoughts and/or feelings. This withholding of emotional expression can be a direct result of a traumatic experience, an expressionless upbringing, or simply being told as a child, “Children are meant to be seen and not heard!”
Without a doubt, this emotional withholding can be detrimental to one’s health, for the longer one’s thoughts and/or emotions aren’t released, the more power they build. The thoughts and/or emotions can eventually becoming explosive, if not crippling. The need to express oneself honestly is a form of healing and a choice open to all. To not do so can result in a breakdown of the person and result in mental/emotional instability or the creation of a physical ailment, illness or disease.
Empaths are sensitive to TV, videos, movies, news and broadcasts. Violence or emotional dramas depicting shocking scenes of physical or emotional pain inflicted on adults, children or animals can bring an empath easily to tears. At times, they may feel physically ill or choke back the tears. Some empaths will struggle to comprehend any such cruelty, and may have grave difficulty in expressing themselves in the face of another’s ignorance, closed-mindedness and obvious lack of compassion. They simply cannot justify the suffering they feel and see.
You will find empaths working with people, animals or nature with a true passion and dedication to help them. They are often tireless teachers and/or caretakers for our environment and all within it. Many volunteers are empathic and give up personal time to help others without pay and/or recognition.
Empaths may be excellent storytellers due to an endless imagination, inquisitive minds and ever-expanding knowledge. They can be old romantics at heart and very gentle. They may also be the “keepers” of ancestral knowledge and family history. If not the obvious family historians, they may be the ones who listen to the stories passed down and possess the majority of the family history. Not surprisingly, they may have started or possess a family tree.
They have a broad interest in music to suit their many expressive temperaments, and others can query how empaths can listen to one style of music, and within minutes, change to something entirely different. Lyrics within a song can have adverse, powerful effects on empaths, especially if it is relevant to a recent experience. In these moments, it is advisable for empaths to listen to music without lyrics, to avoid playing havoc with their emotions!
They are just as expressive with body language as with words, thoughts, and feelings. Their creativity is often expressed through dance, acting, and bodily movements. Empaths can project an incredible amount of energy portraying and/or releasing emotion. Empaths can become lost in the music, to the point of being in a trance-like state; they become one with the music through the expression of their physical bodies. They describe this feeling as a time when all else around them is almost non-existent.
People of all walks of life and animals are attracted to the warmth and genuine compassion of empaths. Regardless of whether others are aware of one being empathic, people are drawn to them as a metal object is to a magnet!
Even complete strangers find it easy to talk to empaths about the most personal things, and before they know it, they have poured out their hearts and souls without intending to do so consciously. It is as though on a sub-conscious level that person knows instinctively that empaths would listen with compassionate understanding. Then again, for empaths, it is always nice to actually be heard themselves!
Here are the listeners of life. They can be outgoing, bubbly, enthusiastic and a joy to be in the presence of, as well as highly humorous at the most unusual moments! On the flip side, empaths can be weighted with mood swings that will have others around them want to jump overboard and abandon ship! The thoughts and feelings empaths receive from any and all in their life can be so overwhelming (if not understood) that their moods can fluctuate with lightning speed. One moment they may be delightfully happy and with a flick of the switch, miserable.
Abandoning an empath in the throes of alternating moods can create detrimental effects. A simple return of empathic love–listening and caring compassionately without bias, judgment and/or condemnation–can go an incredibly long way to an empath’s instant recovery. Many empaths don’t understand what is occurring within them. They literally have no idea that another person’s emotions are now felt, as one’s own and reflected outwardly. They are confused as to how one moment all was well, and then the next, they feel so depressed, alone, etc. The need to understand the possibilities of empath connection is a vital part of the empaths journey for themselves and for those around them.
Empaths are often problem solvers, thinkers, and studiers of many things. As far as empaths are concerned, where a problem is, so too is the answer. They often will search until they find one – if only for peace of mind. This can certainly prove beneficial for others in their relationships, in the workplace, or on the home front. Where there is a will, there is a way and the empath will find it. The empath can literally (likely without the knowledge of what’s actually occurring) tap into Universal Knowledge and be receptive to guidance in solving anything they put their head and hearts into.
Empaths often are vivid and/or lucid dreamers. They can dream in detail and are inquisitive of dream content. Often they feel as though the dreams are linked to their physical life somehow, and not just a mumble of nonsensical, irrelevant, meaningless images. This curiosity will lead many empathic dreamers to unravel some of the “mysterious” dream contents from an early age and connect the interpretation to its relevance in their physical life. If not, they may be led to dream interpretations through other means.
Empaths are daydreamers with difficulty keeping focused on the mundane. If life isn’t stimulating, off an empath will go into a detached state of mind. They will go somewhere, anywhere, in a thought that appears detached from the physical reality, yet is alive and active for they really are off and away. If a tutor is lecturing with little to no emotional input, empaths will not be receptive to such teaching and can (unintentionally) drift into a state of daydreaming.
Give the empath student the tutor who speaks with stimuli and emotion (through actual experience of any given subject) and the empath is receptively alert. Empaths are a captivated audience. This same principle applies in acting. An actor will either captivate the audience through expressing (in all aspects) emotions (as though they really did experience the role they are portraying) or will loose them entirely. Empaths make outstanding actors.
Empaths frequently experience déjà vu and synchronicities. What may initially start as, “Oh, what a coincidence”, will lead to the understanding of synchronicities as an aspect of who they are. These synchronicities will become a welcomed and continually expanding occurrence. As an understanding of self grows, the synchronicities become more fluent and free flowing. The synchronicities can promote a feeling of euphoria as empaths identify with them and appreciate the connection to their empathic nature.
Empaths are most likely to have had varying paranormal experiences throughout their lives. NDE’s (Near death experiences) and or OBE’s (Out of body experiences) can catapult an unaware empath into the awakening period and provide the momentum for a journey of discovery. Those who get caught up in life, in society’s often dictating ways, in work etc., can become lost in a mechanical way of living that provides very little meaning. All “signs of guidance” are ignored to shift out of this state of “doing”. A path to being whole again becomes evident and a search for more meaning in one’s life begins.
These types of experiences appear dramatic, can be life-altering indeed, and are most assuredly just as intensely memorable in years to come. They are the voice of guidance encouraging us to pursue our journey in awareness. Sometimes, some of us require that extra assistance!
For some empaths, the lack of outside understanding towards paranormal events they experience, may lead to suppressing such abilities. (Most of these abilities are very natural and not a coincidence.) Empaths may unknowingly adopt the positive or negative attitude of others as their own. (This, however, can be overcome.) Empaths may need to follow interests in the paranormal and the unexplained with curiosity so as to explain and accept their life circumstances.
Words © Christel Broederlow
Source: theknowing1.wordpress.com
Monday, May 6, 2013
It's....a brand new car!!!
I loved, loved, loved my Explorer. I truly did. BUT...I drive 25+ miles every day to work by myself, it had a 22 gallon gas tank - resulting in more than $80 a fill up, seating for 7, a tan interior and well...it was just way too much of a vehicle for the three of us. We don't haul a portable crib, stroller, high chair or any of that stuff any more. We just didn't need something this BIG.
When I was driving my Explorer, I kind of felt...wasteful. Such a big truck yet, it didn't haul anything, didn't do any work, didn't have any purpose. I've thought many times about cutting back but, wasn't ready or didn't think it was a good idea to get rid of our newer vehicle yet also knowing that Jeremy's car wasn't going to be worth anything as a trade or a sale. I've been doing my homework for awhile. Researching colors, options, etc. We went to look on Saturday and kind of unexpectedly, we said good bye to our big old girl, and brought home this little sweetheart.
She's a 2013 Ford Escape SE with 4WD. Seating for 5 with a 15 gallon tank. I totally, LOVE her! She's considerably smaller and I wasn't too keen on the 4 cylinder but, she's quite zippy and she scoots right along! She is a much better fit for us and what we need. And - there's a lot more room in our garage! :)
Thursday, May 2, 2013
What If?
Whatif by Shel Silverstein
Last night, while I lay thinking here,
some Whatifs crawled inside my ear
and pranced and partied all night long
and sang their same old Whatif song:
Whatif I'm dumb in school?
Whatif they've closed the swimming pool?
Whatif I get beat up?
Whatif there's poison in my cup?
Whatif I start to cry?
Whatif I get sick and die?
Whatif I flunk that test?
Whatif green hair grows on my chest?
Whatif nobody likes me?
Whatif a bolt of lightning strikes me?
Whatif I don't grow tall?
Whatif my head starts getting small?
Whatif the fish won't bite?
Whatif the wind tears up my kite?
Whatif they start a war?
Whatif my parents get divorced?
Whatif the bus is late?
Whatif my teeth don't grow in straight?
Whatif I tear my pants?
Whatif I never learn to dance?
Everything seems well, and then
the nighttime Whatifs strike again!
some Whatifs crawled inside my ear
and pranced and partied all night long
and sang their same old Whatif song:
Whatif I'm dumb in school?
Whatif they've closed the swimming pool?
Whatif I get beat up?
Whatif there's poison in my cup?
Whatif I start to cry?
Whatif I get sick and die?
Whatif I flunk that test?
Whatif green hair grows on my chest?
Whatif nobody likes me?
Whatif a bolt of lightning strikes me?
Whatif I don't grow tall?
Whatif my head starts getting small?
Whatif the fish won't bite?
Whatif the wind tears up my kite?
Whatif they start a war?
Whatif my parents get divorced?
Whatif the bus is late?
Whatif my teeth don't grow in straight?
Whatif I tear my pants?
Whatif I never learn to dance?
Everything seems well, and then
the nighttime Whatifs strike again!
I had read this many moons ago but, today something Jeremy said reminded me of it and I had to read it again.
There have been so many "whatif's for us. 7+ years.
Whatif she doesn't like us?Whatif she wants him back? Whatif social services comes to take him away? Whatif after all this adoption we do conceive? Whatif he doesn't walk? Whatif he doesn't talk? Whatif therapy doesn't work? Whatif he can't go to school? Whatif his cleft palate is serious? Whatif his ears keep bleeding? What if he weighs too much? Whatif he doesn't eat enough? Whatif the house catches fire? Whatif he doesn't make friends? Whatif he thinks we don't love him?
Whatif I do it wrong?
Whatif I do it right?
Whatif we never take a chance and let him grow? Whatif we do, start to let him go? Whatif something happens and I'm not right there?
Whatif this parenting thing was easy?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)