Good morning Graham and Substack Community! Graham, I love this poem and also your explanation of it in the video. For me, the formation that sustains my soul is my FAITH in God. That is what sustains me on this physical and wellness journey through the good and tough times. I have found that if you do not take care of your SOUL and maintain that, you can lose sight of your TRUE self. My FAITH is also what makes me happy and is truly the person I am in which we all are a "CHILD OF GOD." We are each made uniquely and that was the intended plan of the creator.
One take away I have had thus far on this journey of mine is when we get out of our comfort zone and share with others, it is amazing to feel and experience the inspiration that overflows. I will have to admit I've never felt this kind of inspiration before. I will say it has humbled me, and at the same time the growth and appreciation I have for myself and for others has been filled with so much gratitude and an overflow of blessings.
On one occasion recently, I have to admit I struggled with all these negative emotions, like what if I fail at this, what will others think? I tried to pray, listen to inspirational music, read the Bible, but nothing worked because I was allowing the toxic thoughts in. I didn't want to get pulled back in to where I was before I started this journey. I've come too far. So the vulnerable side of me in which I don't let out often came through. I texted a friend, and asked if they would pray for me when I could not do it myself. I want to say, be vulnerable and allow yourself to reach out to others and ask for help when you need it. I would add that is also part of the growth process and another thing asking others for help is certainly out of my personal comfort zone. Long story short, I did a 2 hour walk in nature, and I could feel I was letting God back in again, and it ended up being a great prayer walk.
I encourage all of us to be there for one another because together we are all on this journey we call life. Yes, they are different individual journeys, but the one thing we all have in common is the gift of life we're given. It is up to each of us to look inside ourselves and prayerfully consider what that means for each of us.
Graham, I agree, this is a beautiful prayer when all the ingredients come together, for the mind, spirit, body, and SOUL. Thank you again Graham for a wonderful poem and for the support of this amazing community. I am so humbled and blessed to be a part of this. I am so grateful that God led me here!
Blessings and Cheers to all! Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight!
Hope everyone is having a great weekend! After a lot of prayer and guidance, I’m going to try and start sharing/writing about the health and wellness journey I’m on in substack. It will be coming soon, so if you would like to check it out, you can subscribe at annewooten.substack.com. It will be called “One Day at a Time.” I’m new at this so hopefully I’m setting this up correctly. Have a wonderful weekend! Blessings!
I think it will be wonderful and brave of you to do this. Best of wishes to you on this new adventure. My weekend has been super and hope yours is as well. Thanks a bunch.
That’s awesome Anne. You’ll do great. I can’t wait to read your accomplishments. I just realized I’ve been putting an a at the end of your name. I’m so sorry I didn’t realize I was doing that till now my heartfelt apologies Anne.
Anne God Bless you. I so enjoyed everything you said. When I am in trouble, I ask the Holy Spirit to help me and he does every time. He is our comforter and help in time of need. He also leads and guides us to the truth. I am a widow but I never feel alone because He’s with me.
When Jesus left this earth He said He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us and I am so humbled to have this gift. He’s here for all of us.
I pray that you will have a special moment with Him God Bless you!
Hi Ann. That part in you comment has me by my heart. You said to have the courage to ask for help. Well right now I need prayers. I’ve found myself really doubting myself more. To tell you the truth I’m having difficulty not only trying to figure out what I need and trying to love myself. I’m confused at times and I’ve tried meditation but I’m not getting any where. I cant hear Gods voice I haven’t for awhile. I’ve even tried listening to the Bible but find myself drifting even from that. I’m a Christian women that believes in him whole heartedly. I know I can not do this without him. So hear I am asking for you or someone to guide me. This is really hard for me to admit this to anyone. Thanks for hearing me out.
It truly is a beautiful song. Sometimeswhen I know I need to cry, or at least be broken enough to 'feel' again. I listen to that song. It is far too easy sometimes to push the adrenalin, build up walls and plow forward. My heart just becomes slightly hardened/ self preservation and my soul kind of dry. Let it Rain is very healing.
Shari was not able to be on the zoom call earlier as she had a family emergency. She gave me permission to post this and has asked for prayer for her family. She knows we have some prayer warriors in this community, so I’m posting this on her behalf. Thank you!
Thank you Anne and to everyone who is praying for my family. It was an exhausting night. Please continue to pray for my family this is going to be very rough for my husband and I. Thank you again. God Blessings to all of you.
Hi Shari: I just sent you a direct message on Instagram. I’m on my way home from guitar practice. Read what I DM’d you and we can talk if you need to. I’m here for you! Just let me know what is comfortable for you. We’re hear to support one another. God bless you and will pray for you!
Thank you Elizabeth! I share the words God puts on my heart, and let him take it from there. I'm so humbled right now but eternally grateful! God bless you!
I totally agree with you that it's my faith in God and my place as His child that sustains me through all of the tough times and good times in my life. To have God walking with me through this crazy life brings that "peace that passes all understanding". I honestly don't know how people do life apart from that peace. Thanks for all of your inspirational comments and posts (I see you on IG).
Thank you Anne for this beautiful and touching testimony, we feel so much sweetness and compassion through your words. I would have liked to be with you tonight with the time difference, but as I don't understand English it will be complicated! May God bless you
Anna you have a way with words.. so beautiful--so blessed you are a very special person you sure add so much to this6 community we are so blessed to have you with us .. god bless -you
Thank you Jody! You're so kind. We're all here to encourage one another in this community which I call family. I remember the phrase "It's more blessed to give than to receive"! Blessings to you my friend!
This was a great poem to “summarize” the month of May. Your poems this month have given me a lot to think about and act upon and helped me to refocus my vision for the future as well as being more present in the now. In this poem I keep going back to “Let us focus our intentions while filling up our cups”. My intention is to be what God wants me to be and doing what He gives me to do for the greater good of all. And you’re right, that has to come from a sustainable place in us. The music is very soothing and I look forward this morning to having some quiet time to reflect on where all of these weeks of ideas this month will take me next month and beyond. God’s doing some good work in preparing me to do what I’m called and blessed to do in even bigger ways. Looking forward to seeing everyone in the chat tonight!
Thank you for all your encouragement and interaction on my page, Elizabeth! The support truly means the world to me. I'm so happy to have gotten to know you.
Thank you Cathey! You are very talented and I am happy to follow you. Today in a parent's meeting at school, I remenbered "The memory of moments" to explain how important is to see good things and at not only the bad
Thank you Graham, I love listening to you, you are so insightful. And as Bev says, we can all learn so much from you. My daughter has been asking me for years to write a book about my family and listening to you over the last few months has really inspired me to do that. I am definitely going to write that book. I still remember my great grandmother who was born in 1902 and lived to be 97 years old. We were 5 generations for 16 years. Very blessed to have had her for so many years. Thank you for the lovely music. Excited for the live chat, even though it will be 3am in the morning for me. 🤗❤️
I’m sure the book that you will write about your family will bring back so many memories for you. Enjoy writing it and have fun doing it remember it’s for you and no one else besides your family.
The mediation music is fantastic. Thank you Graham for sharing this and your incredible poem today. Was sitting by a pond, watching the ripples in the water caused by a swan, it was so relaxing. Thinking about all the poems on May and especially this one. Always look forward to Tuesdays, and it inspired my entire week. Bless you Graham for this interaction with all of us. 🌴🦋
Many times after reflecting on your writings and listening to you speak I feel the blood flowing a little stronger in me. It feels like those good 'ol days when I had so much "get up and go" in my step. I feel inspired to do something go out and conquer the world! And then I cool those jets and come back to earth to see the me I am now. Yes, I am alive but am I ALIVE? For some time a few years back I began crawling through life. I was worn out essentially. I put every ounce of energy I had into surviving life for so many years that I never realized I had stopped LIVING it.
Is it too late for me now? Physically I'm a shell of that old me. Mentally and spiritually however I am awakening once again. I am seeing that there is a bit of energy brewing and I am feeling a push to DO something. Something that matters. Like when I was a young girl and wanted join the Peace Corps and help children. I want to help but I don't know where to start or if I'm physically capable. So many questions. So many if's. But it's a start!
Life has started churning inside of me. I don't feel stale or all used up. I'm a bud in a barren field right now and Graham, you have watered that little plant over and over so that now it is starting to bloom.
I've been inspired by my friends from here and especially the GIMs who are on the path with me to eat cleaner, move more and drink more water... nurturing our bodies...and souls together. Such an inspiring group of like minded souls. God Bless you Graham and the friends here who are traveling this road together with you in this community. Our paths are different but our strength comes from the support we get from each other. And life is starting to look livelier each day.
Amen Barbara - we all have our different journeys, but one thing we have in common, we're here encouraging one another on those. We are family here and I truly we are here for one another thru the good and not so good. Very well said! God bless you!
Barbara I wrote basically that in my comment as well. As we pass through the stages of life we must often reinvent our status in life, honestly assess where you have been where you are now and where you want be in a finite time frame. Your are ALIVE!!! What you chose to fulfill in thevremaining years requires a “process” which I won’t repeat it here. However, your must stop and assess periodically along the way where you’ve been, where you are and what you still want to accomplish
I'm going with the flow right about now Jeffry. Taking care of the "me" now, which is totally foreign for me. After that I'll see where that takes me. Thanks for your thoughts and insight.
Well said Jeff I have a plaque that states the only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come. My mom gave me that plaque. I love it
That was beautiful Barbara. You have a way with words. I just can't always go there with my words, but I appreciate reading what you have to say. Who are the GIM's you refer to?
Don't sell yourself short Lynn. I've read many a story on here from a person who said the same thing, and was totally moved by their story. Stories from the heart can't go wrong! I appreciate your kind response and look forward to reading your story too someday😊
Barbara I love how you said you are mentally and spiritually awakening. Have you thought about mentoring a young lady in your church or community. The younger generation is in need of Godly women and most certainly prayers. Just something that came to mind when I was reading your post. :)
Jody, my tenderhearted friend, I'm so thankful you are on this journey with me. I couldn't imagine doing it without you and our dear GIM friends . Graham brought us together and we are richer for it❤🙏
Graham…you amaze me. I listened to your message today in awe. It’s beyond my comprehension how you can review your poems in May so eloquently and with such deep conviction and passion. You brought out all of the key “life changing and life self reflection” ingredients contained in them with such ease and from so deeply within your heart. I have tried to take the many life lessons and values from your work and embed them within me…within my heart…and use them in such a way that they become a “new” and “permanent” natural behavior for me. I’m finding that it is very challenging for me to make the meaningful changes in my life that I so much want to make.
You are the model to me for sure and someone with such deep natural conviction…someone with life values so deeply embedded in your fibers…and you are someone with such strong “life changing” behavior and influential advice who I want to so strongly emulate as I continue down the journey I embarked on several months ago when I discovered you and your gifted work…work that I embrace wholeheartedly. So I’m going to continue working at implementing these life changing practices and seize opportunities to change and I know that with your continuing guidance through your work, I have a very strong positive feeling that my future life experiences will continue to improve.
Turning to your poem Formation, my strong desire is to create a place of fulfillment in my life or “spiritual prophets” as you describe which are sustainable for me for many years.
Closing here…I want to say that I have never before opened up or revealed much about my personal life but Graham you have given me the courage and acceptance to speak out through this venue, finally at age 75. And in so doing, I feel better about myself each day…I appreciate life more abundantly…and I thank my blessings every day for such a beautiful life. Thank you for this Graham…and as always blessings to you.🙏
Danny - I feel the exact same way! I would never have opened like I have prior to joining this community. I'm so glad God led us all here! God bless and thank you for sharing!
Thanks Anne…great to see you on tonight’s chat. I was so impressed with Graham tonight because he shared so much about himself and his personal experiences and challenges during his life. And he was so complimentary and encouraging to many who spoke. It says a lot about his character.
I wish I could of been there. But an unexpected turn of events I was unable to be there. Im glad all of you had an amazing time. I will watch the episode later on when Graham puts it out.
It certainly does. That’s one of the reasons why I’m able to step out of my comfort zone now and try my best to be the person God wants me to be if that makes sense.
Dear Graham ~ Thanks for the video today. It was an Ah-ha moment for me. To be honest, I started this journey with you because I was a bit nosey -- wanting to find out more about you & why you left Heartland. And, surprisingly, I actually found out more about MYSELF & what I need and desire in life – and that It’ll Be OK. God does work in mysterious ways.
I’m having fun writing a humorous blog about aging, which is attracting some wonderful people. I'm definitely enjoying making new connections. Hopefully, it not only makes me happy; but helps them too. And, when those around me think I'm crazy, the warrior inside me just laughs with them & writes another silly entry. Hee hee!
I have to smile sometimes about how I ended up "finding Graham" and how it has resulted in finding myself and so many others who are now sharing my journey and their own. God certainly does work in mysterious ways as you said. Loving your blog, Jan!
Jan I enjoyed most is Good To Know.I want to know more about aging because I am there.I am enjoying my journey with the Lord’s help.guidance and direction.I also enjoy this community thanks to Graham.I admire his intelligence,full of goals and dreams.I am proud of you Graham.I hope one day you will introduce to us your someone who deserve s you.
I'm an extra extrovert who has had to be by myself so much more during this pandemic. I'm glad to have this platform to "visit" with so many wonderful folks!
Hey, Lynn, next to Jan's name at the top of her comment it says "Writes That's Good to Know". Click on that and it will take you right to her page. You'll notice those connections on quite a few others' posts, too. Fun to explore what people are sharing on their own pages.
Thanks Graham for you words of wisdom. Even this old lady can learn from those much younger than I. I have to thank you, reading your poems and interacting with this group gave me the push to actually start writing my book and sharing in my newsletter here on Substack.
This month has been a process that you so eloquently summarized for us. Formation is the culmination of observing world around you, then turning inward and assessing what my needs are both spiritually and physically, then forming a plan and executing until complete satisfaction has occurred. Complete? It’s a process and sometimes 100% is unattainable but as we learned from last week entry from Joshua, the fight inside of you pushes me on. It’s difficult at times once you retire to find meaningful things for yourself then share with others. I’ve made it a point this year to do so. Part of the excitement is creating, then planning, molding, correcting then modifying, finding those around you with crazy great skills you may not possess but are eager to learn. Once the process is born, the excitement turns to implementation, then sharing with others in a kind and loving way.
Graham as you well know my latest endeavor is almost to fruition! It is your continual inspirations that drive many of us forward and even though our life’s calling may be behind us, it is the fascination, creativity, the desire then the will drives us forward toward fulfillment and satisfaction. More in the chat tonight I’m sure about this!
Graham, your poems really inspire me to re-read them and concentrate on what you are saying, thinking and projecting. I have returned to deep and remarkable things I haven’t thought about for years that influenced and affected my life so positively. Thank you for the inspiration! I hope everyone is able to experience the depth of such wonder filled thoughts. Love the song. See you tonight! 😊
Wonderful poem, love how you tied all the poems together. I’ve gone back and read each one several times this month and every time I find something new. It has been a month of reflection, practicing self love, and keeping my heart open as I continue on the path God has planned for me. Thank you for your inspiring words that have helped me face hidden emotions and to move forward with peace and joy in my heart.
Graham, your writings and videos are bringing so many wonderful people together. I feel blessed to be part of this loving, supportive, and encouraging community. Your work is a “shining light” in the world today!
Loved the music, Graham! The prayer poem was beautiful as well. When I think of filling my cup, I think of my faith in God. I can only go forward if my sites are on Him. With my best intentions, I’m still not able to do it alone.
This morning, during my walk, I was praying out loud saying I’m not sure how I could go on with out my faith. When all around me does not make sense, I have to look to God. In my devotion, “ Seeing Beautiful Again”, this quote struck me: “Every other choice—including the choice not yo do anything and remain where we are— just adds more hurt upon hurt.”
That quote brings me back to all the other poems from this month, especially last week’s about not succumbing to the victim role. I choose to focus on God to direct my path!
This is a beautiful poem, Graham, and your explanation brings it to life for me. As usual, I have to read and re-read several times until it starts to sink in. You have expressed that the month of May was about creating and formation. The poems of this month have led us to this point. Throughout the process, I have been praying that what I do, where I go, etc. are not what I want but what God wants. And yet I believe that the things that I want do reflect what God wants when my heart is in the right place. I suppose that is what faith is all about. It’s not that God is way out there and we’re down here. It’s God WITH us and IN us. Such a mystery. This is all a life journey with ups and downs and what not! BTW, you sure seem excited about the podcast upgrades that are on the way. 😊
Well said! And I'm super excited about the new platform, too. All the things in one place sounds dreamy and Graham always does things excellently. Can't wait.
Philip - You're exactly right. FAITH is trusting GOD and letting go of what we cannot see. God is always with us and inside to light and guide the way. It is up to us to let that happen. Thank you. God bless you!
Good morning Graham and Substack Community! Graham, I love this poem and also your explanation of it in the video. For me, the formation that sustains my soul is my FAITH in God. That is what sustains me on this physical and wellness journey through the good and tough times. I have found that if you do not take care of your SOUL and maintain that, you can lose sight of your TRUE self. My FAITH is also what makes me happy and is truly the person I am in which we all are a "CHILD OF GOD." We are each made uniquely and that was the intended plan of the creator.
One take away I have had thus far on this journey of mine is when we get out of our comfort zone and share with others, it is amazing to feel and experience the inspiration that overflows. I will have to admit I've never felt this kind of inspiration before. I will say it has humbled me, and at the same time the growth and appreciation I have for myself and for others has been filled with so much gratitude and an overflow of blessings.
On one occasion recently, I have to admit I struggled with all these negative emotions, like what if I fail at this, what will others think? I tried to pray, listen to inspirational music, read the Bible, but nothing worked because I was allowing the toxic thoughts in. I didn't want to get pulled back in to where I was before I started this journey. I've come too far. So the vulnerable side of me in which I don't let out often came through. I texted a friend, and asked if they would pray for me when I could not do it myself. I want to say, be vulnerable and allow yourself to reach out to others and ask for help when you need it. I would add that is also part of the growth process and another thing asking others for help is certainly out of my personal comfort zone. Long story short, I did a 2 hour walk in nature, and I could feel I was letting God back in again, and it ended up being a great prayer walk.
I encourage all of us to be there for one another because together we are all on this journey we call life. Yes, they are different individual journeys, but the one thing we all have in common is the gift of life we're given. It is up to each of us to look inside ourselves and prayerfully consider what that means for each of us.
Graham, I agree, this is a beautiful prayer when all the ingredients come together, for the mind, spirit, body, and SOUL. Thank you again Graham for a wonderful poem and for the support of this amazing community. I am so humbled and blessed to be a part of this. I am so grateful that God led me here!
Blessings and Cheers to all! Looking forward to seeing everyone tonight!
https://www.dropbox.com/s/9x0wkdppgc0f6xt/Sun.jpg?dl=0
Photo I took recently - Remember to let the Sun/SON shine brightly in your hearts each and every day!
Best advice ever!👍. Thank you Anne🤗
Hope everyone is having a great weekend! After a lot of prayer and guidance, I’m going to try and start sharing/writing about the health and wellness journey I’m on in substack. It will be coming soon, so if you would like to check it out, you can subscribe at annewooten.substack.com. It will be called “One Day at a Time.” I’m new at this so hopefully I’m setting this up correctly. Have a wonderful weekend! Blessings!
I think it will be wonderful and brave of you to do this. Best of wishes to you on this new adventure. My weekend has been super and hope yours is as well. Thanks a bunch.
That's good news. Have a nice weekend too. 🌼
That’s awesome Anne. You’ll do great. I can’t wait to read your accomplishments. I just realized I’ve been putting an a at the end of your name. I’m so sorry I didn’t realize I was doing that till now my heartfelt apologies Anne.
Shari, no worries. Have a wonderful weekend!
You as well.
Hello Anne beautifully said in your comments.Let us all walk with God closer day by day let God the center of our lives. Have a good weekend everyone.
Amen1
Anne God Bless you. I so enjoyed everything you said. When I am in trouble, I ask the Holy Spirit to help me and he does every time. He is our comforter and help in time of need. He also leads and guides us to the truth. I am a widow but I never feel alone because He’s with me.
When Jesus left this earth He said He would send the Holy Spirit to be with us and I am so humbled to have this gift. He’s here for all of us.
I pray that you will have a special moment with Him God Bless you!
Thank you for the kind words. Amen to everything you said! God bless you! 🙏❤️✝️
Hi Ann. That part in you comment has me by my heart. You said to have the courage to ask for help. Well right now I need prayers. I’ve found myself really doubting myself more. To tell you the truth I’m having difficulty not only trying to figure out what I need and trying to love myself. I’m confused at times and I’ve tried meditation but I’m not getting any where. I cant hear Gods voice I haven’t for awhile. I’ve even tried listening to the Bible but find myself drifting even from that. I’m a Christian women that believes in him whole heartedly. I know I can not do this without him. So hear I am asking for you or someone to guide me. This is really hard for me to admit this to anyone. Thanks for hearing me out.
Shari,
Hugs. Do you have any favourite worship songs?
Sometimes just listening, singing while alone and let His love pour over you.
If you don't
Michael W Smith Healing Rain might be a good one. As you just let His love pour over you.
Anne, thank you for reaching out directly to Shari.
Count Your Blessings name them one by one
Thank you Deborah, I love Michael W Smith. I use to listen to him years ago. I will sure listen to him. I will sure let this sink in.
I just listened to let it rain.Beautiful some tears came I’m just soaking it all in. Thank you again Deborah for sharing the name of the song.
It truly is a beautiful song. Sometimeswhen I know I need to cry, or at least be broken enough to 'feel' again. I listen to that song. It is far too easy sometimes to push the adrenalin, build up walls and plow forward. My heart just becomes slightly hardened/ self preservation and my soul kind of dry. Let it Rain is very healing.
So blessed it spoke to you Shari. Much love.
Shari was not able to be on the zoom call earlier as she had a family emergency. She gave me permission to post this and has asked for prayer for her family. She knows we have some prayer warriors in this community, so I’m posting this on her behalf. Thank you!
Thank you Anne and to everyone who is praying for my family. It was an exhausting night. Please continue to pray for my family this is going to be very rough for my husband and I. Thank you again. God Blessings to all of you.
Shari I am praying for you.please pray for me too I had a big fall and hurt my knees and lower back
I will we’re in this together 😊❤️🙏
My prayers are with you. I will do spiritual warfare for Anne
Hi Shari: I just sent you a direct message on Instagram. I’m on my way home from guitar practice. Read what I DM’d you and we can talk if you need to. I’m here for you! Just let me know what is comfortable for you. We’re hear to support one another. God bless you and will pray for you!
Thank you Ann I will take a look
Shari - it was great talking with you. Any time you need someone to pray for you or just talk, please don't hesitate to reach out. God bless you!
Perfectly said Anne…thanks🙏
Thanks Danny!
Wow beautiful comment, I love reading you and following your posts that are so inspiring to me. Thanks, keep going
Thank you Elizabeth! I share the words God puts on my heart, and let him take it from there. I'm so humbled right now but eternally grateful! God bless you!
I totally agree with you that it's my faith in God and my place as His child that sustains me through all of the tough times and good times in my life. To have God walking with me through this crazy life brings that "peace that passes all understanding". I honestly don't know how people do life apart from that peace. Thanks for all of your inspirational comments and posts (I see you on IG).
Amen Jody! I see you there also! Blessings to you my friend!
Thank you! I agree with you Jody
Thank you Anne for this beautiful and touching testimony, we feel so much sweetness and compassion through your words. I would have liked to be with you tonight with the time difference, but as I don't understand English it will be complicated! May God bless you
Thank you Myriam! You are so kind. May God bless you too my friend!
Anne, Agree with everything you say… I’m not good with words,the way you are thank you ❤️
Thank you Lynn! You did very well just now. I'm not either really. I just share how I feel I'm led! Blessings!
Anna you have a way with words.. so beautiful--so blessed you are a very special person you sure add so much to this6 community we are so blessed to have you with us .. god bless -you
Thank you Patty! I share what the Spirit lays on my heart! May God bless you too!
Anne it is always a pleasure to read and absorb the things you write.
Thank you Bonnie! I just write what is placed on my heart at the time! God Bless!
Thank you Jody! You're so kind. We're all here to encourage one another in this community which I call family. I remember the phrase "It's more blessed to give than to receive"! Blessings to you my friend!
You're welcome Susan! We're all here for one another! Blessings to you my friend!
You're so welcome! Hope you have a blessed rest of the week! Any time my friend!
Thank you Graham for this beautiful ,powerful and thought provoking poem,you inspire me everyday with your thoughtful words and writing!🙏❤️
I feel the same. 🌼
Agreed Irene..Always🙏
Exactly how I feel Irene thank you 💖
This was a great poem to “summarize” the month of May. Your poems this month have given me a lot to think about and act upon and helped me to refocus my vision for the future as well as being more present in the now. In this poem I keep going back to “Let us focus our intentions while filling up our cups”. My intention is to be what God wants me to be and doing what He gives me to do for the greater good of all. And you’re right, that has to come from a sustainable place in us. The music is very soothing and I look forward this morning to having some quiet time to reflect on where all of these weeks of ideas this month will take me next month and beyond. God’s doing some good work in preparing me to do what I’m called and blessed to do in even bigger ways. Looking forward to seeing everyone in the chat tonight!
You are also a source of inspiration, I love reading you. Thanks Cathey 🌼
Thank you for all your encouragement and interaction on my page, Elizabeth! The support truly means the world to me. I'm so happy to have gotten to know you.
Thank you Cathey! You are very talented and I am happy to follow you. Today in a parent's meeting at school, I remenbered "The memory of moments" to explain how important is to see good things and at not only the bad
Oh wow! I love that! Thank you for sharing that with me.
The quoted line was also one of my favorites in the great poem shared by Graham
Thanks, Lori. I think maybe a lot of us have been inspired in similar ways this last month. Graham always gives us lots to ponder!
Thank you Graham, I love listening to you, you are so insightful. And as Bev says, we can all learn so much from you. My daughter has been asking me for years to write a book about my family and listening to you over the last few months has really inspired me to do that. I am definitely going to write that book. I still remember my great grandmother who was born in 1902 and lived to be 97 years old. We were 5 generations for 16 years. Very blessed to have had her for so many years. Thank you for the lovely music. Excited for the live chat, even though it will be 3am in the morning for me. 🤗❤️
I’m sure the book that you will write about your family will bring back so many memories for you. Enjoy writing it and have fun doing it remember it’s for you and no one else besides your family.
Thank you so much. 🤗
Good luck with your writing.
Thank you Christine 🤗
Thank you 😊
The mediation music is fantastic. Thank you Graham for sharing this and your incredible poem today. Was sitting by a pond, watching the ripples in the water caused by a swan, it was so relaxing. Thinking about all the poems on May and especially this one. Always look forward to Tuesdays, and it inspired my entire week. Bless you Graham for this interaction with all of us. 🌴🦋
I loved the relaxation. I love to meditate to it as well. It brings me down to a state of slowing my breathing. It helps me focus to.
Yes the music was soothing to my soul Deborah
Many times after reflecting on your writings and listening to you speak I feel the blood flowing a little stronger in me. It feels like those good 'ol days when I had so much "get up and go" in my step. I feel inspired to do something go out and conquer the world! And then I cool those jets and come back to earth to see the me I am now. Yes, I am alive but am I ALIVE? For some time a few years back I began crawling through life. I was worn out essentially. I put every ounce of energy I had into surviving life for so many years that I never realized I had stopped LIVING it.
Is it too late for me now? Physically I'm a shell of that old me. Mentally and spiritually however I am awakening once again. I am seeing that there is a bit of energy brewing and I am feeling a push to DO something. Something that matters. Like when I was a young girl and wanted join the Peace Corps and help children. I want to help but I don't know where to start or if I'm physically capable. So many questions. So many if's. But it's a start!
Life has started churning inside of me. I don't feel stale or all used up. I'm a bud in a barren field right now and Graham, you have watered that little plant over and over so that now it is starting to bloom.
I've been inspired by my friends from here and especially the GIMs who are on the path with me to eat cleaner, move more and drink more water... nurturing our bodies...and souls together. Such an inspiring group of like minded souls. God Bless you Graham and the friends here who are traveling this road together with you in this community. Our paths are different but our strength comes from the support we get from each other. And life is starting to look livelier each day.
Amen Barbara - we all have our different journeys, but one thing we have in common, we're here encouraging one another on those. We are family here and I truly we are here for one another thru the good and not so good. Very well said! God bless you!
Our happy place! God Bless you too Anne!
Barbara I wrote basically that in my comment as well. As we pass through the stages of life we must often reinvent our status in life, honestly assess where you have been where you are now and where you want be in a finite time frame. Your are ALIVE!!! What you chose to fulfill in thevremaining years requires a “process” which I won’t repeat it here. However, your must stop and assess periodically along the way where you’ve been, where you are and what you still want to accomplish
I'm going with the flow right about now Jeffry. Taking care of the "me" now, which is totally foreign for me. After that I'll see where that takes me. Thanks for your thoughts and insight.
JLcrackdog.
I always enjoy reading your comments and common sense , honest advice. Thank you.
Well said Jeff I have a plaque that states the only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come. My mom gave me that plaque. I love it
Barbara -- check out my blog ^^^ on aging. It may give you a laugh while you're getting ready to bloom again. You've got this!!!
I sure will Jan! Thanks.
You will find it by my name here. Just click on That's Good To Know. Thanks!
That was beautiful Barbara. You have a way with words. I just can't always go there with my words, but I appreciate reading what you have to say. Who are the GIM's you refer to?
Sounds like you are going on a new journey. I wish you all the best. 🙏💖
Bless you Barbara..you are inspirational too.
Barbara,You have a lovely way with words,( wish I had ) thank you
Don't sell yourself short Lynn. I've read many a story on here from a person who said the same thing, and was totally moved by their story. Stories from the heart can't go wrong! I appreciate your kind response and look forward to reading your story too someday😊
Barbara I love how you said you are mentally and spiritually awakening. Have you thought about mentoring a young lady in your church or community. The younger generation is in need of Godly women and most certainly prayers. Just something that came to mind when I was reading your post. :)
Jody, my tenderhearted friend, I'm so thankful you are on this journey with me. I couldn't imagine doing it without you and our dear GIM friends . Graham brought us together and we are richer for it❤🙏
Graham…you amaze me. I listened to your message today in awe. It’s beyond my comprehension how you can review your poems in May so eloquently and with such deep conviction and passion. You brought out all of the key “life changing and life self reflection” ingredients contained in them with such ease and from so deeply within your heart. I have tried to take the many life lessons and values from your work and embed them within me…within my heart…and use them in such a way that they become a “new” and “permanent” natural behavior for me. I’m finding that it is very challenging for me to make the meaningful changes in my life that I so much want to make.
You are the model to me for sure and someone with such deep natural conviction…someone with life values so deeply embedded in your fibers…and you are someone with such strong “life changing” behavior and influential advice who I want to so strongly emulate as I continue down the journey I embarked on several months ago when I discovered you and your gifted work…work that I embrace wholeheartedly. So I’m going to continue working at implementing these life changing practices and seize opportunities to change and I know that with your continuing guidance through your work, I have a very strong positive feeling that my future life experiences will continue to improve.
Turning to your poem Formation, my strong desire is to create a place of fulfillment in my life or “spiritual prophets” as you describe which are sustainable for me for many years.
Closing here…I want to say that I have never before opened up or revealed much about my personal life but Graham you have given me the courage and acceptance to speak out through this venue, finally at age 75. And in so doing, I feel better about myself each day…I appreciate life more abundantly…and I thank my blessings every day for such a beautiful life. Thank you for this Graham…and as always blessings to you.🙏
I'm 76 and taking great heart that we "mature" (haha) folks can soar the same as the young 'uns.
Patty you are still young I am 79 let us keep going on our life’s journey with God.With the Lord’s guidance and direction we will be okey.God bless.
Exactly…I agree🤣
Danny - I feel the exact same way! I would never have opened like I have prior to joining this community. I'm so glad God led us all here! God bless and thank you for sharing!
Thanks Anne…great to see you on tonight’s chat. I was so impressed with Graham tonight because he shared so much about himself and his personal experiences and challenges during his life. And he was so complimentary and encouraging to many who spoke. It says a lot about his character.
You took the words right out of my mouth about how Graham ran and contributed to the group chat. Fantastic!
I wish I could of been there. But an unexpected turn of events I was unable to be there. Im glad all of you had an amazing time. I will watch the episode later on when Graham puts it out.
Yes I thought he was amazing
It certainly does. That’s one of the reasons why I’m able to step out of my comfort zone now and try my best to be the person God wants me to be if that makes sense.
Absolutely…it makes so much sense Anne. Have a great rest of the week.
This is so beautiful Danny. I love reading about your journey. One day at a time. Glad you decided to share.
Thanks Laura…I appreciate it. Really, Graham has a way of giving us courage to share our feelings…he’s an amazing inspirational individual to me.🙏
Dear Graham ~ Thanks for the video today. It was an Ah-ha moment for me. To be honest, I started this journey with you because I was a bit nosey -- wanting to find out more about you & why you left Heartland. And, surprisingly, I actually found out more about MYSELF & what I need and desire in life – and that It’ll Be OK. God does work in mysterious ways.
I’m having fun writing a humorous blog about aging, which is attracting some wonderful people. I'm definitely enjoying making new connections. Hopefully, it not only makes me happy; but helps them too. And, when those around me think I'm crazy, the warrior inside me just laughs with them & writes another silly entry. Hee hee!
Blessings to You!
I have to smile sometimes about how I ended up "finding Graham" and how it has resulted in finding myself and so many others who are now sharing my journey and their own. God certainly does work in mysterious ways as you said. Loving your blog, Jan!
Jan I enjoyed most is Good To Know.I want to know more about aging because I am there.I am enjoying my journey with the Lord’s help.guidance and direction.I also enjoy this community thanks to Graham.I admire his intelligence,full of goals and dreams.I am proud of you Graham.I hope one day you will introduce to us your someone who deserve s you.
Jan , love your blog !! I always smile when I read your stories !! Keep up the great work :)
Thanks so much! I'm always grateful for your kind, encouraging words.
Your blog is so much fun, Jan. Thanks for sharing all the stuff we "mature" folks can relate to.
Thanks, Philip! I"m looking forward to following Philip's Little Corner too.
Took me forever to muster the courage. One of my May miracles thanks to this group. Thanks for following!
Did you read my JUST DO IT entry? It took me a "God Wink" to get up my nerve. Keep writing!
Yes! I think that was my inspiration. Introverts like me need God Winks and God Kicks.
I'm an extra extrovert who has had to be by myself so much more during this pandemic. I'm glad to have this platform to "visit" with so many wonderful folks!
Phillip I too am an introvert and got a kick out of your comment #introverts
#itsok
Jan , How do I get your blog?
Hey, Lynn, next to Jan's name at the top of her comment it says "Writes That's Good to Know". Click on that and it will take you right to her page. You'll notice those connections on quite a few others' posts, too. Fun to explore what people are sharing on their own pages.
Thank you Cathy will do !
Thank you for checking into my blog. I hope you enjoy it!
Good 9n you Jan. 💖😊
Thanks Graham for you words of wisdom. Even this old lady can learn from those much younger than I. I have to thank you, reading your poems and interacting with this group gave me the push to actually start writing my book and sharing in my newsletter here on Substack.
This month has been a process that you so eloquently summarized for us. Formation is the culmination of observing world around you, then turning inward and assessing what my needs are both spiritually and physically, then forming a plan and executing until complete satisfaction has occurred. Complete? It’s a process and sometimes 100% is unattainable but as we learned from last week entry from Joshua, the fight inside of you pushes me on. It’s difficult at times once you retire to find meaningful things for yourself then share with others. I’ve made it a point this year to do so. Part of the excitement is creating, then planning, molding, correcting then modifying, finding those around you with crazy great skills you may not possess but are eager to learn. Once the process is born, the excitement turns to implementation, then sharing with others in a kind and loving way.
Graham as you well know my latest endeavor is almost to fruition! It is your continual inspirations that drive many of us forward and even though our life’s calling may be behind us, it is the fascination, creativity, the desire then the will drives us forward toward fulfillment and satisfaction. More in the chat tonight I’m sure about this!
Graham, your poems really inspire me to re-read them and concentrate on what you are saying, thinking and projecting. I have returned to deep and remarkable things I haven’t thought about for years that influenced and affected my life so positively. Thank you for the inspiration! I hope everyone is able to experience the depth of such wonder filled thoughts. Love the song. See you tonight! 😊
Wonderful poem, love how you tied all the poems together. I’ve gone back and read each one several times this month and every time I find something new. It has been a month of reflection, practicing self love, and keeping my heart open as I continue on the path God has planned for me. Thank you for your inspiring words that have helped me face hidden emotions and to move forward with peace and joy in my heart.
Graham, your writings and videos are bringing so many wonderful people together. I feel blessed to be part of this loving, supportive, and encouraging community. Your work is a “shining light” in the world today!
So thankful to be part of this community and to have gotten to know you more. I count my blessings every day .
Hi Graham, good morning! All your poems I take as advice from a very wise person! Thanks for each one! 🙌🏻
You have a wonderful gift of touching souls!
May God bless you infinitely! Thanks for the music! 🙌🏻
My intentions are focused
on the expansion of my soul
Big dreams for a higher good
But experience has taught me
that it means letting go of the familiar
I plant seeds, try to wake up others
but who can follow me?
The path gets lonely
but brave and decided I know which way I want to go...
Thanks for another inspiring poem, Graham!🙏✨
Much love to everyone in this community!💕
Loved the music, Graham! The prayer poem was beautiful as well. When I think of filling my cup, I think of my faith in God. I can only go forward if my sites are on Him. With my best intentions, I’m still not able to do it alone.
This morning, during my walk, I was praying out loud saying I’m not sure how I could go on with out my faith. When all around me does not make sense, I have to look to God. In my devotion, “ Seeing Beautiful Again”, this quote struck me: “Every other choice—including the choice not yo do anything and remain where we are— just adds more hurt upon hurt.”
That quote brings me back to all the other poems from this month, especially last week’s about not succumbing to the victim role. I choose to focus on God to direct my path!
See y’all tonight!
I well understand Tricia.
Amen Tricia!
This is a beautiful poem, Graham, and your explanation brings it to life for me. As usual, I have to read and re-read several times until it starts to sink in. You have expressed that the month of May was about creating and formation. The poems of this month have led us to this point. Throughout the process, I have been praying that what I do, where I go, etc. are not what I want but what God wants. And yet I believe that the things that I want do reflect what God wants when my heart is in the right place. I suppose that is what faith is all about. It’s not that God is way out there and we’re down here. It’s God WITH us and IN us. Such a mystery. This is all a life journey with ups and downs and what not! BTW, you sure seem excited about the podcast upgrades that are on the way. 😊
Well said! And I'm super excited about the new platform, too. All the things in one place sounds dreamy and Graham always does things excellently. Can't wait.
Agreed. Should be awesome!
Philip - You're exactly right. FAITH is trusting GOD and letting go of what we cannot see. God is always with us and inside to light and guide the way. It is up to us to let that happen. Thank you. God bless you!
It is such a mystery! And yet I believe it with all my heart. God bless!
I agree with you Philip Germani thanks for liking my comment.Looking forward for another week and we will enjoy another poem from Graham . God bless
Yes, it's almost Graham Tuesday!