Being "myself ". . .

RA gave me some very good advice awhile back . . . just be myself.


Here I was, getting all metaphysical and junk, trying to "read the signs" and figure out my "next step" and she gave me a much needed little tap on the shoulder.  Umm, HELLO!  I mean after all, here I was going on and on about who knows what and what really mattered was that, whatever was approaching (if anything), was doing so because I am who I am . . .


I especially liked the little reminder that frequently, we are not even aware of the help we provide for others . . . just by being ourselves.  I was reminded of this, first by RA and then by a lovely card I got in the mail the other day.  Not too long ago, I met two amazing people who are working hard to do some amazing good in the world.  Just the other day, I found out that their efforts are starting to achieve results.  I was absolutely thrilled to hear of their good fortune because it means that some wonderful things are going to happen for some very deserving people.


Now, recently when I had a big celebration in my life -- one of those where people ask you what they can get you as a gift to mark the occasion.  I am not really very good at answering that unless I absolutely need something and so, at first I was stumped.  There was nothing I needed except the company of the people invited to the celebration.  But, then l I had a moment of enlightenment.  This cause had become very dear to my heart and it was just in the beginning stages.  What better way to celebrate this event in my life than to have those who asked what gift to get me to take that money and donate it to this new organization!?  (Without going into too much detail, there was a strong link between what I was celebrating and what this organizations goal is -- so it made sense!)


I have no idea how much money was in the envelop I gifted to these wonderful people that night.  But, my heart swelled when I saw their faces as I took a moment and thanked all who had contributed to the contents and handed it over to them.  That alone would have been thanks enough as far as I was concerned.  But it was not to end there . . . yesterday I received the most beautiful Thank You card in the mail.  What I saw as a simple gesture -- almost a "logical" solution to a dilemma -- meant the world to them.  Apparently, my decision affected them greatly and they expressed that in their card.


All because I was being myself . . .

Check this out!

Recently, I learned of a wonderful new organization called Paws and Stripes.  It is dedicated to pairing Rescue Dogs and returning Veterans with various disabilities and impairments that are a result of their service to the United States.  It then provides for the training of both the four- and two-legged members of that pair until they become a strong Service Dog/Companion Partnership.  Regardless of your position on the military activities of this country, these men and women deserve an opportunity to re-enter society.  As the website says; "Paws and Stripes strives to bring peace and normalcy to the lives of our nation's heroes and see that homeless dogs not only find a loving home, but a new purpose in life."

Not only does this organization provide loving and dedicated animals with a great home and an amazing job, it also helps some very deserving men and women to heal, gain strength, and regain confidence and independence.  Yes, the earth is crying out but so are many men and women who have experienced trauma and tragedy in the service of the United States.  As a witch, I honestly believe that it is not just my responsibility to care for Mother Earth, but to also care for everything on Her.  Paws and Stripes addresses two very important issues (canine overpopulation and disabled Veterans) and provides a wonderful solution to these difficult problems.

This may be a shameless plug, but who cares!  Take a look at this great organization.  If you have a Disabled Veteran in your family, or if you know of someone who does, PLEASE tell them about Paws and Stripes.  It may be the best thing that you ever do for them and will be a wonderful way of thanking them for everything that they have sacrificed for their country and its citizens.  The cause is awesome and the trainers they are using are fabulous!