Harmony

A new year and new beginnings....a time for reflection and examination of intentions for the days ahead. This year I, like so many, have decided to focus on a single word instead of a list of resolutions or goals.

The word and mantra I will embrace in 2009 will be "harmony". When selecting my word my first thought was "balance".....I have been attempting to achieve balance in my life for sometime now and have made but little progress. The word "harmony" seemed to express within its seven letters the equality I would like to ascertain in my lifetime. Harmony\Har"mo*ny\ 1. The just adaptation of parts to each other, in any system or combination of things, or in things intended to form a connected whole; such an agreement between the different parts of a design or composition as to produce unity of effect; as, the harmony of the universe.

I found it inspiring that similar words to harmony were: accord, agreement, attunement, balance, beauty, bliss, chime, closeness, coaction, collaboration, common effort, communion, compatibility, compliance, consistency, dynamic symmetry, elegance, fitness, flexibility, joining of forces, liberty in tranquillity, love, meeting of minds, medoliousness, mutual regard, observance, one voice, peace, pulling together, quiet, rapport, reconciliation, respect, rhythm, self-consistency, symbiosis, synergism, team spirit, togetherness, understanding, union, united action and unity. Yes, I would like all of those things, thank you very much. Powerful words and intentions.

I am guilty of focusing so strongly, so passionately, on one area of my life (even if it is something I love like art) while other aspects of my life take the back seat. Then finally I am blessed with a wake up call and the universe whispers in my ear the reality of the situation and nudges my spirit to re-examine my intentions. This past year I did receive such a wake up call and it's not the first time. I just completed 5 weeks of physical therapy and, as a result, am determined to make myself (whole self) a priority. I know that if I can achieve a greater symmetry of mind, spirit and body, I will be successful in accomplishing one of my life's yearnings and purposes. In 2009 I intend to give back to myself, honor myself, embrace my life and be grateful for every day. Do you have harmony in your life?

To re-affirm my daily intentions, I have created two talismans which will serve to empower me upon this journey. One such talisman is a mantra piece of jewelry which I can wear as a bracelet or necklace. I was introduced to the idea of such a piece of jewelry by Nina as she featured a beautiful one on her blog and etsy last year. I fashioned mine with vintage, ivory colored pearls (I am now of the "vintage" variety, yet full of luster and polished with my life experiences); copper, brass and silver African beads (signifying the unity in diversity); Swarovski rhinestone rondells (the sparkle I so enjoy); an antique key (symbolic as to harmony being the "key"); antique religious medal (to echo the importance of nurturing my spirit); and silver charm with "harmony" impressed upon it.

My second talisman is a paperweight I created using a treasured, healing stone from one of my favorite, magical beaches.....Point No Point on Vancouver Island, British Columbia....a constant reminder of my connectedness to the earth.

So, I am excited about 2009 and the surprises it has in store. I am confident that my intentions will be manifested and I will be successful in achieving the "harmony" I seek.

Happy new year to all of you and thank you for coming by to visit.