Tag Archives: gratitude

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Embracing the Cycle: A Solstice Reflection on Life and Gratitude

When are you most happy?

I am on my happiest now, in the stillness of the night, where the world holds its breath, my soul stirs. Awakened by the whisper of the summer solstice, it feels like a moment to unfurl unseen wings and soar. In this profound darkness, a cocoon of silence wraps around me, inviting reflection, contemplation, and integration. It is a sacred pause, the end of one year and the quiet beginning of another.

No plans guide me tonight. I sit in the vast, open stillness, free of thought’s constraints. The night cradles me, timeless and boundless, and I find myself awash in gratitude for simply being here—alive, aware, and present. Life, with all its trials and triumphs, stands before me like a canvas painted with the brushstrokes of time. The universe, in its quiet wisdom, has always carried me forward, even through the storms.

Looking back, I see a life lived with authenticity, imperfect yet deeply meaningful. Failures and mistakes were the roots of my growth, and though I stumbled, I always found my balance again. The longest stretch of my journey may be behind me, but there is no mourning here. Instead, I celebrate each year, each accomplishment, each fleeting moment of joy. Life, even in its smallest details, has been a gift—one I treasure deeply.

A flower blooms, a pedal falls, a cycle repeats


I do not fear the inevitability of death. Like a flower in its bloom, radiant and complete, there comes a time to fold back into the earth. I will not rush that moment. It will arrive on its own, gentle and unbidden. Until then, I will cling to life, not out of fear but out of love—for the next moment, for one more breath, for the wonder that lingers in the unknown.

When the time comes, I hope to meet it with peace, knowing I have lived as fully and meaningfully as I could. I will return to the Source, the Ur, knowing my life has been a song sung to its fullest note. Just as the cycle of nature turns, I, too, will yield to its rhythm. For now, my task is simple: to savor every moment left, to live with gratitude, and to embrace the beauty of existence

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

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A magnetic awakening

What a privilege to wake up in this house! The sun is streaming in through the windows to feed the soul. I breathe in deeply being revitalized by the early morning air. The day is awakening in me with every deep breath I take. I am grateful for the opportunity to live life today. I am inspired to slip into the IS rune position and meditate on my inner magnetism growing and strengthening more and more.

My imagination paints a picture of a soul nourished by the sweet nectar of life itself. As the sun rises, each ray of light seems to touch my spirit and breathe new life into every pore of my being. The world comes alive around me, not just outside my window, but within my heart, soul, and mind. I raise my thoughts to it’s noblest heights .

How lucky I am to begin my day with such clarity, gratitude, and pure joy. May each breath I take today be a reminder of the beauty and wonder that surrounds me in this glorious world. I will step into this day full of power and health.

I step into the day not just with my feet, but with my whole being. My mind is a canvas of possibilities, my heart an untamed force of love, and my soul a beacon of light. Each step forward is a declaration of my power and intent, each breath a testament to my courage and strength. The world is my stage and I will with the best of my knowledge and abilities to help, assist and protect my fellow human beings. I embrace the wonder of life and let it carry me forward into the dawn of a new day, where adventure awaits and dreams are realized.

The stillness of the morning captures the magic of the moment when the sun’s rays kisses the earth’s first smile. I love how I am able to see the world this morning through glasses of gratitude and the aroma of coffee brewing. Let the energy of the sun flow into my consciousness of being!

ARAHARI!

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

More blog entries on awakening;

From Spark to Radiance: A Reflection on Inner Fire and Awakening

Balance between role and soul

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Harnessing the Moon’s Rhythm for Personal Growth

The moon’s phases offer a powerful framework for self-improvement. By incorporating intention setting, affirmations, gratitude, and acceptance throughout the cycle, you can tap into well-established psychological principles. 


Aligning with the Rhythm:
The new moon, shrouded in darkness, signifies a time for fresh starts.  This aligns perfectly with setting intentions, a form of goal setting infused with ritual and symbolism, making your aspirations feel even more potent.  As the moon waxes, so does your sense of possibility.  Positive affirmations, a core principle of cognitive behavioral therapy, become especially powerful during this growth phase, strengthening neural pathways associated with your goals.

Gratitude and Emotional Release:
The full moon, bathed in light, is often associated with heightened emotions.  Practicing gratitude during this phase can be particularly effective, boosting happiness and contentment.  The moon’s intensity can also encourage emotional release.  Journaling or meditation can facilitate a healthy catharsis.  Finally, the waning moon signifies a period of winding down.  Focusing on acceptance allows you to acknowledge what is beyond your control and fosters peace, a crucial component of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

The Power of Ritual and Mindset:
Aligning with the moon cycle incorporates the concept of ritual, providing structure and a sense of control, which can be grounding and reduce anxiety. The cyclical nature of the moon itself is a source of comfort. Knowing that challenges are temporary and new beginnings are always on the horizon can be a powerful mental health tool.

Limitations and Individuality:
It’s important to remember that the moon’s influence is likely psychological, not physiological.  The effectiveness of this practice hinges on the chosen practices and the individual’s beliefs.  While the moon cycle can be a helpful framework, overreliance on it can downplay the importance of consistent effort.

Ultimately, aligning with the moon cycle can be a valuable tool for self-reflection and personal growth, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.  Remember, the moon serves as a guide, not a determinant.  A growth mindset and consistent effort remain crucial for achieving your goals.

© Jurgens Pieterse. All rights reserved. 2024

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Full moon gratitude list for April

On this full moon, reflecting on the blessings since the last new moon:

For adventures that broaden my world: My trip to Brazil opened my eyes to new cultures and deepened my understanding of humanity.

For a team that empowers me: I’m grateful for each member of my work team, their reliability, and the knowledge I gain from them.

For the heart-melting joy of grandchildren: Having them visit filled our home with laughter and unforgettable moments.

For a wife who inspires me: I admire my wife’s strength and resourcefulness in adapting to a quieter space.

For connecting with loved ones: The lunch with my son and daughter was a cherished time to share life experiences.

For creating a sanctuary of peace: Incorporating Feng Shui principles made my meditation room a haven of tranquility.

Under the full moon’s radiant glow, I offer heartfelt thanks for these gifts, big and small. May my gratitude continue to blossom and my heart overflow with joy.

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~ Finding Balance, Grounded in Gratitude ~



Today I woke up overflowing with gratitude. Blessings, both tangible and intangible, arrived at the perfect moment. My tried-and-true formula for manifesting solutions felt validated once more, and an unexpected bonus: confirmation that practicing rune yoga barefoot actually benefits my health! These seemingly disparate events converged, painting a clear picture of balance – needs met, health on the rise, both interconnected.

This experience highlighted a profound truth: restoring balance is more powerful than chasing it. Shifting the fulcrum, seeking entirely new levels, can be challenging. It’s often easier to maintain a current state than embark on a complete overhaul.

But where does this balance begin? Our bodies, I believe, hold the key. They are our strongest connection to the physical world, the Earth itself. So, wouldn’t it make sense to first ensure our bodies are in balance before tackling our thoughts and emotions? A balanced body can serve as a sturdy foundation for mental and emotional harmony. Healing, then, becomes a journey towards restoring that equilibrium, bringing our being into tune.

This perspective sheds light on the power of practicing barefoot yoga. It necessitates stepping outside, forging a connection with nature, creating a space conducive to grounding ourselves. My newfound physical balance has translated into a surge of internal energy, a blossoming confidence. This resonates deeply with Odin’s wisdom: “Deeds shape with deeds into deeds” – each action, each step towards balance, builds upon the last.

I share this experience not just for personal reflection, but with the hope it might spark a new outlook, inspire others to seek balance in their own lives. As a Libra, I believe this is the gift I can offer the world – a reminder that even in the midst of change, seeking and restoring equilibrium can lead to a more fulfilling existence.

© Jurgens Pieterse, All rights reserved. 2023