As I hear the difficult and painful experiences of others, I listen closely for their “narrative”. A narrative is a deeply embedded story with a beginning, a middle, and an end. Woven through the narrative is a theme made up of core conclusions about one’s self, life, and relationships that have emerged as a result of the challenge or hurt. As you might expect, depending on the amount of pain, the theme can become a rather limiting tune to which one dances for a very long time. I listen closely to the stories I hear because every painful narrative begs a new ending that is fresh and expansive. Every story of hurt is seeking a positive tune to which its essence can begin to move, and we’re a part of the dance! We become a part of this wonderful process by simply listening to the story with a heart that cares. If we’re listening for “the deepest desire of the heart”, then we’ll know instinctively when to ask a brief but powerful question, and the question is, “And now?” You see, the story is being told in the first place because it’s an “incomplete experience”. The question “And now?” invites a brand new theme that satisfies with a victorious note of closure, once and for all. Whatever you’re dealing with from the past, or challenged with in the present moment, I ask of you, “And now?” Fill your answers with playful sounds of love, hope, and positive outcomes. It’s your life, dance joyfully!

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.

I love “Eves”. “Eves” are very different from plain old “nights” or “evenings”. An “Eve” is the night or evening immediately preceding a special day. On the most popular of “Eves”, there is always a powerful energy of eager anticipation. “Eves” tend to bring hope of life, fresh starts, and new beginnings. “Eves” are infused with childlike imagination about the specialness of the day to come. What if we treated every single night or evening as an “Eve” that was about to give birth to the most incredible day of our entire life? I think that it would somehow revolutionize our whole existence. Remember that today is the “Eve” of tomorrow, so mosey along now, and do something special to celebrate!

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.

It’s that time of year when the days grow ever shorter and for me, there is a gentle turning within. This is always an adventure, quiet as it is. What will I discover in my reflections as the year rolls quickly to an end? A year of play and toil, laughter and tears, highs and lows, faith and doubt... and now? I love that question at the end of every road. Two simple words hold so much power to complete an experience in a way that binds or liberates our souls. We all have a deep responsibility to our “And now?” questioning. I hope you will fill your answers with love, light, and hope. 

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.

A woman was telling me about her efforts to break an unhealthy habit. In the midst of her sharing she said, “I know what you’re thinking; ‘Dirty, dirty, little sinner!’” I had a good “belly laugh”, and she laughed with me knowing what I was laughing at. I said that I’m not even capable of thinking that way and I asked her, “Where did THAT come from?” She said kind of sheepishly, “I guess from me”. I think healthy relationships have enough love to tolerate imperfection, and to shine a soft light for the soul seeking to find higher ground. In fact, “light” is a characteristic of “Simple Encouragement”. “Simple Encouragement” offers acceptance and laughter as the context for our imperfect striving, helping us to become more perfect! “Simple Encouragement” fuels “perfection”. Be real. Be encouraged!

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.

I was kidding my friend about his brother and mom. I said that I was going to write a blog titled, “Jack Doesn’t Like Me, But His Mother Does”. It’s a long, funny story but it made me think. How often do we get “hung” up” on someone who doesn’t prefer us only to lose the sweetness of enjoying someone who does. Do you do that? Sometimes I do, but you know what? I think that in his own odd way, Jack likes me just fine. 

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.

“I have a bully living inside of my head.” That’s what a bright young woman told me as I pointed out how hard she was being with herself. The truth is, we all have that nagging voice between our ears and while it’s mostly normal, it can become pretty intense at times. So what do we do? Well, there’s a deeper voice that’s loving and encouraging. If you breathe deeply and listen closely, you’ll hear it! It’s right there about where you put your hand over your heart. And the bully? He’s not going anywhere so learn to love him. One day, he might be your friend! 

Simple Encouragement and Simply Encouraging are Trademarks of Simple E Creations, Inc.