After The Forest by Kell Woods

Fairytale Ways is an enchanting way into living an intentional life. The metaphor and poetry available to our imaginations in a long luxurious read of a winding tale - allows a flowing rhythm that builds along with our own heartbeat. When I am immersed in a fairytale or a folk story, my mind begins to see signs of incredible synchronicity all around me. It is a very satisfying feeling. I begin to feel deepened connections to the outer world that trails what is happening in my reading life as well as my own interior world. This is all to say - a comforting sense of ancient threads that are raveling along the edges of my skirts.

Fairytales in the richest and true sense of a tale is really a book to live by. The messages found in such a story are profound if you remain a student to wonder. A curiosity of exploration enlivens how the world is unfolding to you at any particular moment. It is a sort of warp and weft of veil that you are engaged in. As though you take a piece of colorful silk - lift it up gently as if loosely about to shake a blanket - let it fall back down to cover your imagination and everyday life. It is nothing short of pure loveliness.

Reading a fairytale takes me on a journey that I would not otherwise go on. Surrendering to an ancient tale or a more modern fairytale written by a current author brings me gifts to treasure. Usually this sort of read is a slow going type of experience. These stories are filled with rich and satisfying imagery. It allows me to live in a world of magic while I am engaged with the storybook. I find myself embracing a more generous way of thinking while in the midst of such a tale. It is a guide of wonder-making.

Pathways in my mind begin to open. Brain neurons seem to feel richer and bathed in all the good chemicals that give a sense of enrichment and contentment. A fairytale allows me to bring new ideas to my everyday life with a veil of enchantment surrounding the world in a bit of a fairytale mist. Have you felt this way while reading these kinds of stories? It is being cloaked in the authors imagination - come to life within you. The sharing of this exchange is such a generous and abundant gift to me as the reader. Dare I say - it is a bit of suspension of the real and harsh ways of the world. I think when we are able to detach a bit from the rough world ways - a replenishment comes over us - allows us to move on again. A steady walking forward after a rich nourishment.

I am able to take on the hard work of living with a bit of a clearer mind after reading and engaging with a fairytale journey. I feel as though fresh new ideas seem to drip slowly toward a movement of colorful. Pieces of the story resonate more strongly than others. This is of course because these are the layers of understanding needed in a particular moment in a life biography. A bit of wisdom tale. It is uncanny how the stories I pick up to travel with always bring a magic resonance to understanding and reflection in the wrestling of the moment. Fairytales are medicine ways. A remedy for the ills and woes of a life overcome with challenges - highs and lows of living ways.

After the Forest brings all of these delicious feelings into view. Themes of the witch, a gingerbread house, struggle to get by, death, grief, countryside in ruin after war. Greta carries a secret - how this unfolds is creative and unique in the telling. In a village of superstition - gossip and superstition rein. Isn’t this true in our modern everyday lives as well? You see the deeper resonance of fairytale stories and how they mirror our mundane lives. This carries throughout with the theme of the dark forest and where we might be struggling to understand in our own lives. Fairytales are the very stuff of life! If we choose to learn from these stories - not only will we grow and expand in our understanding - we will find the pathways we may need to explore next. Fairytale’s are the remedy for modern day ills. Stories have always been told around the fire with friends and family. Embracing an inner rich exploration of these sorts of tales provides a wide view of ourselves and the world. Navigation becomes the river compass needed to grow into richer humans.

A child lost in a village draws kindness like a swarm of bees: mothers young and old flock and fluster, their wombs tightening in sympathy. Cries are taken up and the child kept in safety until the mother arrives, face ashen, arms reaching.
The cries of a child lost in a vast forest are very different. There is no one there to hear, and the threat of the wild is there in every old tree’s creak, every scratch and scurry in the undergrowth. Alone in the forest there is real fear. Once felt, it is never forgotten.
~After The Forest by Kell Woods

window

Learning to Live with Change

Change is the only constant in life, an inevitable force that shapes our journey and transforms our experiences. Whether it's a new job, a relationship shift, or a significant life event, learning to live with change is a crucial skill that empowers us to navigate the uncertainties of life. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of embracing change and provide practical tips on how to adapt and thrive in the face of life's ever-evolving landscape.

Acknowledge the Inevitability of Change:

The first step in learning to live with change is acknowledging that it is an integral part of the human experience. Life is dynamic, and resisting change only breeds frustration and discontent. By accepting that change is a constant force, we can shift our mindset to one of openness and adaptability.

Embrace the Unknown:

Change often brings uncertainty, and embracing the unknown can be challenging. However, it's essential to view the unknown as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Instead of fearing what lies ahead, approach change with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to learn from the experience.

Develop Resilience:

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, and it is a key trait in navigating change successfully. Cultivate resilience by building a support system, practicing mindfulness, and developing a positive outlook. Remember that setbacks are not failures but opportunities to learn and grow.

Focus on What You Can Control:

While change may bring many external factors beyond our control, it's crucial to focus on the aspects of our lives that we can control. This might include our attitudes, behaviors, and responses to change. By directing our energy toward what we can influence, we regain a sense of agency and empowerment.

Learn from Every Experience:

Every change, no matter how big or small, offers valuable lessons. Instead of dwelling on the past or fixating on what was lost, view each change as an opportunity to learn and evolve. Reflect on the lessons you've gained from previous changes and apply them to navigate current and future transitions more effectively.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset:

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. Embracing a growth mindset encourages a positive outlook on change, as it fosters a belief in our capacity to adapt and learn. Challenge yourself to see change as a pathway to personal and professional development.

Learning to live with change is a lifelong journey, one that requires a mindset of flexibility, resilience, and openness. By acknowledging the inevitability of change, embracing the unknown, developing resilience, focusing on what you can control, learning from every experience, and cultivating a growth mindset, you can navigate life's twists and turns with grace and confidence. Remember, change is not the enemy; it's an opportunity for growth and a catalyst for a more fulfilling and enriching life.

Practice Mindfulness and Presence:

In the midst of change, it's easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets from the past. Practicing mindfulness can ground you in the present moment, helping you appreciate the here and now. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or simply paying attention to your surroundings can foster a sense of calmness and clarity.

Build a Support Network:

Change can be challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors. Share your thoughts and feelings with those you trust, and seek guidance when needed. Having a strong support system provides comfort and encouragement during times of uncertainty.

Set Realistic Expectations:

When facing change, it's important to set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that adaptation takes time and effort. Be patient with the process, and don't be too hard on yourself. Setting achievable goals and celebrating small victories along the way can boost your confidence and motivation.

Foster a Positive Outlook:

A positive mindset can be a powerful tool in navigating change. Instead of dwelling on what might go wrong, focus on the potential opportunities and growth that change can bring. Train yourself to see challenges as stepping stones to a brighter future, and approach new experiences with a hopeful and optimistic perspective.

Continuously Learn and Adapt:

Change often requires learning new skills and adapting to different circumstances. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning, seeking opportunities to acquire new knowledge and expand your skill set. This proactive approach not only makes you more adaptable but also positions you to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Celebrate Your Progress:

Amidst the flux of change, take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your progress. Recognize the steps you've taken, the challenges you've overcome, and the personal growth you've achieved. Celebrating your progress reinforces a positive mindset and motivates you to continue embracing change as a catalyst for self-improvement.

Learning to live with change is a multifaceted journey that encompasses mindset shifts, resilience building, and the cultivation of positive habits. By integrating practices such as mindfulness, building a support network, setting realistic expectations, fostering a positive outlook, continuous learning, and celebrating progress, you equip yourself with the tools needed to not only survive change but to thrive in the face of it. Embrace change as an opportunity for personal and professional transformation, and let it propel you toward a more fulfilling and purposeful life.

Pinecone

Overflowing Brady Tarot

Spirit Sleep

In the cradle of time - where echoes softly chime -
A liquid tale unfolds - of sacred waters, untold
Ripple whispers - ancient wise -
Flowing through realms where mystic dreams arise.

Beneath the moon's soft - silver gaze -
Spirited water weave in cosmic ballet -
Glisten stream - veins of earth
Liquid hymns celebrate life -

~Linden
The Bone Lines

Handwritten Letters

Healing Ink: The Therapeutic Power of Handwritten Letters

In a fast-paced world where technology often dictates the rhythm of our lives, there's a timeless and healing remedy waiting to be rediscovered – the art of handwritten letters. Beyond the tangible act of putting pen to paper, the process of writing and receiving handwritten letters has an unparalleled therapeutic impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Let's explore how this simple yet profound practice can be a healing balm for the soul in a world that often rushes past moments of reflection and connection.

Crafting Catharsis: Expressing the Unspoken

Handwritten letters offer a safe space for emotional expression. When faced with life's challenges, putting our thoughts on paper can be a cathartic experience. The act of writing allows us to explore and process our emotions, giving voice to feelings that may be difficult to express verbally. It becomes a form of self-therapy, enabling us to release pent-up emotions and find solace in the written word.

Mindful Reflection in a Digital Environment

In a world dominated by constant digital stimuli, the simple act of sitting down with a pen and paper encourages mindfulness. Writing a letter requires focus and intention, providing a break from the constant barrage of notifications and distractions. This intentional pause allows for reflection, helping individuals reconnect with their thoughts and emotions in a meaningful way.

Bridges Across Distances: Connection in a Letter

The physical distance between loved ones can often amplify feelings of isolation. Handwritten letters, however, serve as tangible bridges connecting hearts across miles. The anticipation of receiving a letter and the joy of reading words that carry the essence of a distant friend or family member can be profoundly comforting. It's a reminder that, even in the vastness of space, emotional closeness can be maintained through the written word.

Letter-Writing Rituals: An Act of Self-Care

The act of writing itself can become a therapeutic ritual. Carving out time for letter writing is a deliberate act of self-care, offering a break from the demands of daily life. Whether it's a few moments of solitude in the morning or a quiet evening reflection, this ritual becomes a mindful pause that nourishes the soul.

Building Bridges to the Past: Nostalgia's Healing Touch

Receiving a handwritten letter can transport us back in time, evoking feelings of nostalgia and connection to the past. As we read words that were carefully penned by someone we care about, it becomes a reminder of shared experiences, laughter, and love. Nostalgia, in this context, becomes a healing force, weaving the past into the present and offering a sense of continuity and comfort.

Spreading Positivity: The Ripple Effect of Handwritten Affection

The positive energy embedded in a handwritten letter has a ripple effect. Not only does it uplift the spirits of the sender and recipient, but it also extends its warmth to anyone who receives it. Handwritten letters, often shared and treasured, become carriers of positive energy, creating a network of healing connections in the world.

In a world that sometimes feels chaotic and disconnected, handwritten letters stand as a beacon of healing. Through the simple act of putting pen to paper, we can navigate the complexities of our emotions, forge connections, and create a tapestry of healing that transcends the limitations of time and space. We can embrace the therapeutic power of handwritten letters and allow the healing ink to mend the threads of our hearts.

Consider the Hands that Write this Letter

by Aracelis Girmay

Consider the hands
that write this letter.
The left palm pressed flat against the paper,
as it has done before, over my heart,
in peace or reverence
to the sea or some beautiful thing
I saw once, felt once: snow falling
like rice flung from the giants’ wedding,
or the strangest birds. & consider, then,
the right hand, & how it is a fist,
within which a sharpened utensil,
similar to the way I’ve held a spade,
match to the wick, the horse’s reins,
loping, the very fists
I’ve seen from the roads to Limay & Estelí.
For years, I have come to sit this way:
one hand open, one hand closed,
like a farmer who puts down seeds & gathers up
the food that comes from that farming.
Or, yes, it is like the way I’ve danced
with my left hand opened around a shoulder
& my right hand closed inside
of another hand. & how
I pray, I pray for this
to be my way: sweet
work alluded to in the body’s position
to its paper:
left hand, right hand
like an open eye, an eye closed:
one hand flat against the trapdoor,
the other hand knocking, knocking.

Lettres

Books To Read

To the Letter: A Celebration of the Lost Art of Letter Writing by Simon Garfield

The Art of the Handwritten Note: A Guide to Reclaiming Civilized Communication by Margaret Shepherd

The Missing Ink: The Lost Art of Handwriting, and Why It Still Matters by Philip Hensher

Snail Mail: Rediscovering the Art and Craft of Handmade Correspondence by Michelle Mackintosh

Letters of Note: An Eclectic Collection of Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience compiled by Shaun Usher

The World Needs More Love Letters: All-in-One Stationery and Envelopes by Hannah Brencher

The Gift of a Letter by Alexandra Stoddard

These resources offer a mix of historical context, practical guidance, and creative inspiration for anyone interested in exploring or rediscovering the world of handwritten letters.

US Postal Box

Mandala I created with The Group Works Deck

I have used the Group Works Deck for a number of years to design many things. It is a Group Pattern Language Project that can be used in any way that your imagination can conjure up. Currently I am working on an event and the cards provide great brainstorming as well as layout ideas. The sky is the limit for finding ways to imagine with this deck. Get yourself a deck and start designing!

There are many ways to use the Group Works Deck to prepare for, plan and design a facilitated event. Probably the simplest is, with the design group, lay out all the cards by categories, collectively tell the 'story' of how you expect the event will transpire (e.g. from room setup and arrangements, advance research, invitations, welcoming, and opening through detailed agenda, anticipated challenges and closing). As you do, work through the cards, category by category, to identify the ones you could effectively invoke during each stage of the event. Take notes of how, when and by whom each pattern will be invoked, as you begin to lay out the event design. When you're done, glance over the patterns you haven't chosen to see whether any opportunities jump out for you.

Crafting Collaboration: A Comprehensive Guide to Designing an Event with the Group Works Deck

Introduction:

In a world that thrives on effective communication and collaboration, designing events that foster meaningful interactions is essential. One powerful tool that can elevate your event planning process is the Group Works Deck. This deck, comprised of 91 cards categorically organized into seven suits, offers a versatile framework for designing and facilitating group dynamics. In this blog post, we'll explore how to leverage the Group Works Deck to craft an engaging and successful event.

Understanding the Group Works Deck:

The Group Works Deck is a treasure trove of patterns, each card representing a fundamental aspect of group processes. The seven suits include Opening, Clarifying, Building, Achieving, Reflecting, Closing, and Heart. Here's a breakdown of each suit's significance:

1. Opening: Setting the Stage

   • Use cards from this suit to establish a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

   • "Welcome and Inclusion" and "Setting the Container" cards are perfect for initiating connections.

2. Clarifying: Defining Intentions

   • Cards like "Purpose," "Aims and Objectives," and "Agendas" guide participants in aligning their goals and understanding the event's purpose.

3. Building: Fostering Creativity

   • Encourage creativity and collaboration through cards like "Diversity," "Play," and "Storytelling."

   • These cards can inspire innovative thinking and open communication channels.

4. Achieving: Making Progress

   • Measure success and progress using cards like "Harvest" and "Evaluation."

   • Ensure that your event's goals are met and celebrate achievements along the way.

5. Reflecting: Learning and Adapting

   • Foster introspection and improvement with cards like "Feedback Loops" and "Learning Edge."

   • Create opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences and share insights.

6. Closing: Bringing it All Together

   • Use cards from this suit to facilitate a thoughtful conclusion.

   • "Check-Outs" and "Harvest" cards help participants express their feelings and thoughts about the event.

7. Heart: Embracing the Emotional Connection

   • Central to any gathering, cards like "Appreciation" and "Celebration" foster a sense of community and gratitude.

Practical Application:

1. Card Selection:

   • Tailor your event by selecting cards that align with its theme and objectives.

   • Arrange the chosen cards visibly for participants to reference throughout the event.

2. Facilitation:

   • Use the Group Works Deck as a guide to structure your event, maintaining a balance between opening, creative, and reflective activities.

   • Incorporate interactive sessions inspired by specific cards, encouraging participant engagement.

3. Interactive Sessions:

   • Integrate interactive sessions that align with the chosen patterns, such as group discussions or creative exercises.

   • Keep the atmosphere dynamic and engaging to enhance collaboration.

4. Feedback and Reflection:

   • Leverage cards from the Reflecting suit to gather participant feedback.

   • Foster a culture of continuous improvement for future events by learning from each experience.

Conclusion:

Designing an event using the Group Works Deck adds a layer of intentionality and structure that can transform your gathering into a collaborative and enriching experience. By incorporating these cards into your planning and facilitation process, you create a roadmap for effective group dynamics, ensuring that your event leaves a lasting impact on participants and facilitates connections that extend beyond the occasion. So, embrace the power of the Group Works Deck and craft events that inspire collaboration, creativity, and meaningful connections.

The Guardian Tarot

Watchtower

Opening to another requires trust that has become absent - hidden from view
Masked knowing as eyes peer around every corner - honor internal
I stand guard on top of walls built by tired tools
Pace back and forth along rivers screaming past roots -
Uprooted ideas lay waste to a beautiful world - a beautiful Home of earth
Tentacles of knowledge require breast plates to crack - no going back now
A song plays inside of me - hold the line it yells -
As pecking order of scars pile upon heartbeats in yellow slander -
Seeds scatter - branched kingdom crown draws down the bridge -
I hear the loud creaking of the gate -
Scrape rust from cells - imprisoned by lack
Watch tower bullets reign down upon the commons

~Linden
The Bone Lines