Gifts of the Soul Autumn-Winter 2007 by Laura Grace

Gifts of the Soul

Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives

How does an ordinary person create an extraordinary life? We have a few examples of people who have lived extraordinary lives; those individuals, who, because of their devotion to spreading love and peace, their willingness to serve and make a difference, their desire to access their inner strength and power, were extraordinary. Their lives have left an indelible and loving mark on this planet. Some have been canonized as "saints," others have never been recognized at all. Many of them are just like you and me. One that comes to mind is a Hindu enlightened being who lives in India, named "Amma." Amma is known as the "Hugging Guru" and travels the world spreading her love, and raising millions of dollars for the destitute in India. Amma exhibits profound inner strength and commitment, from sun up until sun down, hugging people and giving love unconditionally to all who come to her.

Being the best that we can be takes courage and inner strength. Most people are more comfortable playing small than playing big. We have countless examples of people who are afraid to be happy, afraid to promote themselves and their inner gifts, afraid to be wealthy, and afraid of success. Our planet doesn’t need anymore people to play small. What we need are more individuals who are willing to stretch beyond their ego-based comfort zones, people who are willing to rise up and allow their light to shine.

Research has shown there are certain qualities, that when regularly practiced, cultivate inner strength and power and lead to a life that is rich in spirit:

Helping someone in their time of tragedy or need shows the capacity for human goodness.

Listening closely to another’s words and experiences shows the capacity for soulful communication.

Understanding the pain, sorrow, or loss of another person shows the capacity for empathy.

Believing the best about others, and offering time, support, and friendship shows the capacity for trust.

Apologizing for a past mistake shows the capacity for inner strength and trustworthiness.

Forgiving the errors of a fellow human being shows the capacity to receive forgiveness.

Supporting the truth, even when it is unpopular, shows the capacity for honesty and integrity.

Compromising when it is best for the welfare of others shows the capacity for teamwork.

Giving time and effort to assist others to be successful shows the capacity for sincerity.

Being curious about life, its people and its mysteries, shows the capacity for learning.

Praying for the welfare of family, friends, all of humanity & every living thing, shows the capacity for love.

Accepting the answer to a prayer, whatever it might be, discovering its blessings, and then moving on shows the capacity for gratitude.

Believing in a higher purpose throughout long and difficult seasons of scarcity shows the capacity for determination and hope.

Taking risks, making mistakes, and learning from all experiences show the capacity for being human.

Getting up after having fallen down or suffered failure shows the capacity for resolve and inner power.

Persisting resolutely to navigate life's rapids, scale its mountains, move beyond its perceived limitations, and arrive at its finish line with faith and dignity shows the capacity for achievement.

These are everyday practices that inspire us to access our deepest inner strength. Doing so will assist us in moving us from the ordinary to extraordinary. I believe that each of has the same power, the same capacity to leave an unforgettable, loving mark on this planet.  I invite you to manifest your highest capacity.

© Copyright 2007 Laura Grace. All Rights Reserved.

June-July 2004 - "Deepening Your Spiritual Practice"

April-May 2004 - "Life's Crossroads: Love-vs-Fear"

December 2003 Column - "Touching the Heart of Others"

November 2003 Column - "Knowing How to Care for Yourself"

Laura Grace is the Spiritual Leader of the Circle of Spiritual Enlightenment in Central Coast California, and a national author and speaker. Laura provides spiritual counseling and offers numerous workshops and retreats for awakening the heart and spirit. She is also the author of the books Gifts of the Soul and The Intimate Soul and a syndicated columnist for more than twenty publications. Laura is the host of the show "Relationship Wisdom" on Public Access Television. Please visit Laura at: www.LauraGrace.net.

As a spiritual counselor, Laura provides assistance in person and by phone. You may contact her for a free brochure at: laura@lauragrace.net.

Visit:
www.LauraGrace.net

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