It's Summertime, so lighten-up...

We put too much pressure on ourselves. We drive our bodies and mind too hard and don't give our Spirit understanding, or enough room to soar.

Yesterday was the longest day of the year, and a full moon. WOW... what a time to take a break and consciously stop, look, and listen to the spiritual messages around us.

I forget the reason I'm here sometimes, and, when I've abused my spiritual essence for too long, every situation seems to grow into drama. I get caught up in the illusion that life is what I see instead of how I feel. I get overwhelmed with making a living and completing my to-do list that now looks like a long ticker tape... in other words, demanding perfection. But, in reality, who in the world would care if it turned into a do-nothing list? I could put aside the list for one day, simply relax, and turn off my brain.

Even on a day off, I'll putz around the house all day because I don't give myself permission to read a book, lounge around, and just do nothing. So now, it's summer and time to take a break...

Identify what this means to you. For me, I always go back in time to when my daughter Jodi was a little girl and we lived close to Lake Lanier. I was a bartender in those days and worked some nights, so we would spend my days off at the lake, without a care in the world. I've always been a sun worshipper and loved my days with just me, God, and the Sun. I've made a deal with myself to do that this summer..

So, I invite you to go back in time and pick a pleasant experience that you've either given up or that you don't seem to have time for and recreate that again. It's as simple as giving yourself permission.

I have a library at home that's loaded with a great collection of Tarot cards. I was nudged to get the "Inner Child Cards" down and decided to have some fun with "you" my readers. So I pulled some cards with you in mind. Here's your reading: I chose a five-card spread - the Child Spread = as we are all like little children sometimes... aren't we?

#1 card - Represents "YOU." The card selected was The Child of Crystals, represented by Mark Twain's character Huck Finn. It's the untamed part of ourselves that desires adventure and a relationship with Mother Nature. Choosing this card, or when Huck appears for you, says let your adventurous spirit roam free. Hike the woods, leave the world of civilization for the great outdoors. Paddle your canoe downstream. Ask yourself some hard questions about your personal freedom, your use of physical gifts with sensitivities and skill, and any fears you may have of being a responsible member of society. Try to fathom where you are now along the meandering river of life.

#2 card - Represents your "GOALS." The story of "Aladdin and the Magic Lamp" was drawn, and describes a child's first adventure into a world of mental empowerment. Essentially, the magic lamp is a symbol of the illuminated mind that is overlighted by a genie, representing the powers of the spiritual world and the genius potential of every child. When this card appears for you, realize that you create your own reality from every thought, word, and action. Rather than thinking analytically, explore your creative genius. Recognize your journey on the path of good and evil and the power you possess.

#3 card - Represents your "EGO." Peter Pan calls for a balance between the Earth-centered life and the life of Spirit. When individuals are in touch with their inner guides, they know not to try to control the guidance, but to move gracefully according to their environment. Move steadily in life and uncover your secret resources. Take the middle path and research the deeper meaning of Ageless Wisdom, for Peter Pan is the archetype of eternal youth. Allow yourself the freedom to dream, fantasize, and be adventuresome.

#4 card - Represents your "FUTURE." The Six of Wands is the dance that spirals around with ribbons and flowers as an acknowledgment of the sacred womb of humanity. It's seen as an ultimate gratitude to Mother Nature. Old rituals like the Maypole dance, Japanese tea ceremonies, Chanukah, Saint Nicholas Day, the rites of passage, or "holy times" are meant to be harbingers of unity and to strengthen the wellbeing of the community. This card expresses your passionate side and the realization that you are a vital part of the ongoing stream of life.

#5 card - Represents your "Next Doorway." The Seven of Crystals is a time to illuminate the soul. The sun's rebirth and the new dawning of the Higher Self can move you away from isolation or darkness, where spiritual seeds are sown toward light and unity. Find your own attunement and trust that all is well. Remember, patience is a cardinal virtue. Rest is offered now, as this may be a time to rebuild your strength for your next adventure or awareness in life.

Well, that was fun, interesting, and, I think, a pretty good message for all of us. This mini-reading was from The Inner Child Cards, a journey into fairy tales, myth, and nature by Isha & Mark Lerner

Hope you all have a Happy 4th of July holiday and give yourself permission to be with YOU.

Bye honeys