Awaken Your Space®

Why Empower Network? And Why I Almost Quit...

2012-01-21T02:44:34Z

I joined Empower Network a couple of weeks ago,
not because of the hype but because of the name. Why?
Because the word "Empower" alone was enough to stir my energies.

You see, I'm a Feng Shui consultant that writes and teaches others
about the energy behind intention,
about how kind words and surrounding yourself with
motivating energetic people and environments "can and will"
empower you to move through life with more ease.

Sure, I can get in a funk of negativity or find myself in situations
that make me sit back and ask,
"how did I get here and what can I learn from this!?!?"
However as you know, when you start working on your inner core...
you see and react much different than you did in the past!!

I've written a couple of blogs mostly about what's going on in my life,
not pushing the hype of, "buy this or that"
and there's a reason....

I started out in sales in my early teens, becoming assistant manager
by the time I was 18 and through the years I've learned
that a hard sell isn't necessarily going to land you the customer.
When you connect wholeheartedly with a customer or client
through sharing your story, really connecting with them in
a way that let's them know your genuine, that's
when you make more sales. And they are more apt
to tell others about YOU.

So how did I become a manager by the time I was 18?
I have my energetic son to thank for that
because he welcomed me as his mother
at the age of 16,
a saving grace to where I was really headed!
In other words, he saved and changed my life!

There's much more to share about this story and soooo many more
stories to share however I just wanted to thank you for sharing
the beautiful story, "Love, Pain and Popularity (drama too)".
Regardless if it's a true story, it had depth, deep meaning that
drew the reader in, something they could relate to or
pull at the readers heart.

Just last week I was telling my sponsor that
I just wasn't feeling Empower Network. Why?
Because when doing a search all I could find was others
writing about how to make so much money and
"buy me buy me" type of writing.
I explained my concerns and how Empower Network could
be so much more if everyone could just share their story,
their true intentional self .

And while I won't dismiss that Empower Network isn't
of great value now, what happens when the marketers
move on to the next big fluff they can try to sell.

I was looking at Empower Network as a means to
share my life stories while also making money and
lots of money is intentionally welcomed!
I see Empower Network as the next Blogger or Word Press,
although I know the platform is word press but look
at how many people use these websites to blog.

This is another thing that got me excited
about Empower Network, I saw the value!
Funny, the universe was mixing with my energetic juices
as I opened an email from David Wood, one of the
founders of Empower Network, to find this
amazingly beautiful story,
a heartfelt story that's about life.

This has really stirred me with more positive energy
around Empower Network and I can tell you,
after reading the story you shared with everyone, I'm all in!

And hey you know what........ I'm thinking I need to share
this email I'm sending to David Wood.
Yes, this is the exact email
I sent him, thanking him for empowering me
to stick with Empower Network.

Do you have stories to share with others?
I would love to show you how easy it is....
AND Get Paid for doing it!

To what we can do TOGETHER,
Kandi Phillips
www.kandiphillips.com
www.liveyourintention.com
www.awakenyourspace.com
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kandi-Phillips/299215779047

Christmas Gift of the Present

2011-12-26T23:27:22Z

What an exhilarating day yesterday! It was Christmas Day, a day of celebration of giving and togetherness. As a child, all we think about are the gifts that are awaiting the rip tearing motion from our fingertips. As an adult, it’s the shear gratification of giving and watching the young one’s excitement and thrill of receiving. This takes me back to one particular Christmas as a child. Upon going to bed Christmas Eve, the Christmas tree stood there with not a present under the tree. I recall that it didn’t bother me too much because previous Christmas’s we didn’t have too much and it just seemed to be the norm of not having lots of presents, however this particular year was very different! My brother and I awoke early Christmas morning to find numerous unwrapped gifts under the tree, including bicycles for each of us. Later in life I found a picture that was taken of the gifts including pictures of our father and uncle having what looked like a walk back in time to their own childhood as they rode our bikes around in the living room. Those bikes looked like miniature doll house replicas under their adult bodies however seeing their smiles in the pictures was a present to me as an adult.

Times were hard for my parents but they always made sure that we had food, shelter, clothing, and most importantly, LOVE. They would go without to make sure we always had something special at Christmas time, even if it meant one or two presents. As a parent it was my goal to make sure my children always had plenty of gifts however in their own adulthood it seems they are in that very part of struggle that my parents faced in the 70’s. And although my husband and I aren’t where we were before the Great Late 2000’s Recession, we’ve been able to keep our home and pay bills. More about this in a later blog but for now I wanted to share my story of why this Christmas was so different for us as a family.

This year has been a tough year for us as a family. Although I practice Feng Shui in terms of abundance and the importance of being organized, it’s been tough teaching this to my very own son. We’ve always had this roller coaster relationship, guess the Aries sign has something to do with it, like two rams butting heads with love there to meet us in the end. While we don’t always see eye to eye when it comes to financial independence, daily living, or raising children, I’ve tried my best to be relatively supportive of his decisions in life. Sometimes it can be rather discomforting for me to see how he and his own family struggle but this is where I have to be strong for him in the sense of positive empowerment. We had yet another incident this year that left us not speaking to one another for a few months and while in the past this left me very sad, I’ve learned to give my worries to my spiritual guides. And every single hurt between us is filled in with love. Funny, I feel we both signed a BIG contract before this lifetime! And I’m forever grateful to him for selecting me as his mother because I have learned much from him.

What made Christmas day so special was the fact that the family was together again, we all set aside past hurts and made the day magical. That's truly what the spirit of Christmas is all about, not the presents, the gift of accepting with all your heart. Empower yourself to accept the gift of the present by being in the present moment. This reminded me of a bumper sticker that someone gave me in the past. I used it as a bookmark and just now, I'm wondering what book it's marking, hmmm wonder if it's a book about the love of a present moment.

P.S. You can also find this blog at the Empower Network. I'll be blogging more here... http://www.empowernetwork.com/awaken/

Kandi Phillips
www.kandiphillips.com
www.liveyourintention.com
www.awakenyourspace.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kandi-Phillips/299215779047

Christmas Eve without an Agenda

2011-12-24T16:53:14Z

The plan for my morning was to sleep in however I lay in bed with thoughts of writing. I just had to get these thoughts out of my head… As I look out the door I see that it’s foggy and have to open the door to smell the fresh air… awww it’s a little cool outside but damp so I’m guessing writing outside is out of the question. I make myself a pot of coffee, the Kona coffee I picked up yesterday, it tastes pretty good. Now that I’m settled here writing I’m almost lost for words… go back to the awakening of the morning… the urge to write.. yes there it is.

It’s Christmas Eve, although this year is like none other; no kids in the house, no baking or cooking on the agenda, only David and I to do as we please. Funny, the last thing he said before going to bed was that we would work out first thing in the morning, before breakfast. Guess a mug of fresh ground coffee and the tapping of fingers on the laptop keyboard is as much exercise as I’m getting first thing this morning, as David sleeps peacefully in the bedroom. Well the morning is typically for him it seems as he’s not a morning person which I’ve also turned out to be. So why am I up so early? This then brings me back to my true intentions of writing. What happened to me? I use to be an early riser, worked out 4 times a week, daily household chores, getting kids to and fro from school or activities, shopping, cooking, working sometimes two jobs, and somewhere in between everything, deep passionate love making. But here I am with no-one to take care of but me. And although this sounds really awesome, what do I do? This brings me back to the question of, what happened to me. When it really seems I should be saying hello me and how do you do? Almost like resurfacing the soul. So here I am ready to serve me!

Just yesterday I was crying after a discussion with my daughter over the phone. I had made BIG plans for the Christmas holiday. My son and his girlfriend have been financially struggling, which so many have during the recession, and I really wanted the day to be special for my grandchildren. I mean Christmas is all about the children, right? They need to have that special feeling inside, the one that reminds us adults that there is still magic within ourselves, the kind that truly believes that there’s something bigger than us, something God like, stirring the magical pot of universal love, caring, giving, and receiving with no strings attached. But my BIG plans seemed to be shattering around me, or so I thought. Yesterday I had a really big moment of letting go, the kind of letting go that makes you realize something for yourself, not someone or something else but for self. Sure I would love to have my day surrounded by family, fun, food, and talk but today, I realize that the universe opened this day up for me to see that I can turn my energies and focus on me, rather than everyone else.

This year I planned way ahead of schedule with Christmas decorating starting the week before Thanksgiving, our annual holiday party the first weekend of December, filling in other holiday events throughout the December month, with cookie exchange the weekend before Christmas and all my shopping done early, well I did go out yesterday for stocking stuffers. Guess I just needed to have that feeling of the mad rush that happens just before Christmas Day and I must say, it felt rather relaxing. I could feel the tension with so many others, but me, I felt like a feather drifting in the wind. I even had a few people ask why I wasn’t stressed and my thought was, well you should have seen me earlier when I had a tear jerking party in my bathroom earlier. But that moment passed and now I realize it was needed, it felt good to release and let go.

So again, here I am on Christmas Eve morning with no agenda, but rather a day that opened up for me to be me. I’ve recently realized how I’ve let myself go, yes we’ve all done this or said this but do we really do something about it? I’ve been thinking a lot about taking better care of myself and my health. I’ve always been there for the children, husband, family, work, but not for myself. It’s now that time! I use to do Feng Shui and Live Your Intention workshops but well, the recession hit and I put these on hold to help my husband with his passion of starting his own civil engineering company, yeah just before the big hit of the recession. And I don’t want to dismiss this as a stumbling block in my life because I learned much through this adventure but it was now time to get back into the groove of my passion. My intention is to be the true nature of self, giving unto myself, caring for self, and learning more about my inner self. I could focus in on one aspect of my life like my career, creativity, knowledge, love or wealth but without good empowering health all these aspects would fail. So this is where I’m going to dedicate the next month, to my health and inner self.

Sometime back I wrote a blog titled, "Feng Shui and Our Bodies" which covers a bit about how each sector of the bagua is related to an area of our bodies. I was drawn back to this blog, and although I wrote it and was really feeling it at that time in my life, I again question, what happened to me? According to the Feng Shui bagua, the health sector is located in the middle of the space you occupy or work and it’s also related to the mid section of the body, and oh boy I’m feeling it in my mid-section,you know that icky stuff called FAT! The health sector revolves around everything in the home or office and in your life. With this sector related to the element of earth it’s no wonder I’m feeling like I need to start here within my own life. Earth is what grounds us, connecting us to everything around us, looking within self and becoming centered. Here I sit, knowing and understanding this is where I need to start with a new journey in my life, and although New Years is just around the corner, I’m starting today on Christmas Eve. But I’m not going to just jump in thinking I need to exercise two hours today and push away those tasty Christmas cookies, NO! I’ve already started a beautiful day by taking time to write and next up, mediation time, and I don’t mean an hour of sitting in still motion but rather a time to sit, breathe, and envision my intentions. I use to do this every day but somewhere along the time line of everyday life, it was misplaced with doing, doing, doing instead of being, being, being. Till tomorrow……

P.S. You can also find this blog at the Empower Network. I'll be blogging more here...
http://www.empowernetwork.com/awaken/blog/christmas-eve-without-an-agenda/

Kandi Phillips
www.kandiphillips.com
www.liveyourintention.com
www.awakenyourspace.com

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kandi-Phillips/299215779047

Why Your not a Feng Shui Professional

2010-11-07T21:10:00Z

If you were to ask someone in the United States about Feng Shui 20 years ago they would look at you with the deer in the headlights look. Today, however, we have Feng Shui Consultants spread throughout the United States, Interior Designers that have incorporated this specialty into their practice, and the public reading books or attending seminars so they may try their hand at this thing we call Feng Shui.

If you read my blog, Confused About Feng Shui , you will notice that there are different schools of Feng Shui just as there are different schools in the medical fields. Form school was the basis just as learning about the body is the basis to the medical field. I know, you may be thinking, this gal is really stretching the term, 'opposites' but bare with me and read on.

When you seek out a doctor you will typically look in the phone book, research online or ask a friend about a doctor that specializes in say, Gynecology. Would you seek out a Gynecologist if you have a cold, broke your arm, or have an ache or pain in your body, well no. This also holds true for professionally trained Feng Shui Consultants. Just as there are different schools of Feng Shui there are also different specialties in Feng Shui.

I'm writing this article to shed the light on all the different specialties and why it's important to hire a Feng Shui professional when making adjustments within your home or office. Better yet, what about the advice you give to your neighbor, co-worker, or family member because you read a book or attended a quick workshop about Feng Shui. Have you ever read a medical book so that you may give medical advice without seeking professional training? Do you advice your family members on how to heal a broken arm?

Let's dig a little deeper into the different specialties that a Feng Shui consultant or practitioner would specialize in.

Being a Feng Shui practitioner means many different things to different people. Part of the learning process for a practitioner is to feel what their about, their unique set of skills, their passions, and then to find a way to share their essence with clients during feng shui consultations. If you have trained as a Feng Shui practitioner you know exactly what I'm talking about. For those that read Feng Shui books or have attended workshops to dabble in Feng Shui you are totally missing this 'feeling and passion' that is felt by a professional practitioner. This also holds true for medical students, during their educational training, they may walk into a university wanting to become a Gynecologist only to find along the way they feel a passion to become a Heart Surgeon.

Again, please take the time to read my blog, Confused About Feng Shui, and then read the list below. Depending upon the feeling and passion of a Feng Shui practitioner they may specialize in one or more of the following:

Chinese folklore and mythology
Chinese astrology
Sacred geometry
Indian geometry (Vasshtu)
Dowsing
Numerology
Space clearing techniques from different countries
Clutter clearing and organizing
Transcendental rituals
Perelandra processes and work with flower essences
Interior design
Western psychology (particularly Jungian approaches)
Vedic chakra system
Color theory
Life coaching
Intuitive training
Quantum physics
Meditation techniques
Face reading
Ghost busting
Buddhist rituals, mantras, and meditations
Shamanic techniques
Native American medicine wheel concepts
Intention
Law of Attraction techniques

So you can see where one might be confused even further about Feng Shui when trying to attempt the basic concepts from a book or workshop. Without proper training and years of experience you could not possibly take on the role of a Feng Shui consultant or practitioner as a professional.

Awaken Your Space is currently working on a United States directory to connect you with a Feng Shui consultant or practitioners in your state. Awaken Your Space provides services within Indian River, St Lucie, and Brevard counties of Florida. If you are in search of a Feng Shui professional please contact us and we will do our best to connect you with someone in your area.

Kandi Phillips
Awaken Your Space
www.awakenyourspace.com

Holiday Dinner Checklist

2010-11-07T19:40:00Z

Choose a Theme: Decide whether it will be an elegant or cozy dinner. What is the theme in terms of season, occasion, and guest list?

Extend Invitations: Mail, phone, and e-mail invites are all acceptable. If conducting a formal dinner, it's more appropriate to send a written invitation.

Plan the Menu: Prepare a menu that allows you time for make ahead dishes and also consider the weather. You will want to have time to spend with your guests instead of running in and out of the kitchen. If the weather is cold, a large pot of soup is a great appetizer and time saver! For instance, we serve up a large pot of clam or shrimp chowder if it's an elegant dinner and chili for cozy dinners. Always take into consideration your vegetarian friends when making chili by making a meatless pot as well.

Create a Playlist: This is VERY important because you will not have time to figure out music selections during your dinner party. We always create a playlist on our ipod, play a station on Pandora, or if you have cable they have playlists available at your fingertips. Keep in mind the theme of the dinner party for your music selection. Don't hinder the conversation of others by playing the music too loud. Of course if you want to have a designated area for dancing, then plan this out and pump up the music!

Clean all the Goodies: Clean wine/drinking glasses, dinnerware, china, crystal, silverware, and linens. Also remember to iron the linens. I always iron the linens and set the table the night before. Surprises such as missing silverware can really put you in a downward spiral!

Clean the House: This is a daunting task that should NOT be done the night before. Give yourself a week in advance of your party to cover your house from ceiling to floor. You can keep up with the little stuff through daily routines. If your budget allows, hire someone to clean the house. You will thank yourself in the end!

Take Inventory of all the Stuff: Tableware, cook ware, and serving dishes are a necessity for any dinner party. You can find inexpensive pieces at thrift stores and don't be afraid to mix the patterns. Each dish on the menu should have it's own serving dish. Decide which serving dish will be used for each and mark them with a post it note.

Make a Detailed Shopping and Cooking List: Creating the menu is the easy task, now it's time to gather or purchase all the ingredients. Look through your kitchen for items that you may already have on hand. Create a list of items needed from the store along with the quantities. If you need a large supply of one item consider purchasing this from a warehouse such as Sams Club. Don't forget the liquid drink list. Will you serve alcohol or will you ask your guests to bring their own drink? Remember that you will need to supply the mixers or essentials for those bringing their own alcoholic drinks.

Place Orders: If serving meat or seafood, you will need to place an order with the butcher, fish shop, baker or liquor store in advance. Check the servings of a recipe for meat or seafood dishes against the amount of people attending the dinner party. If supplying wine, allow three bottles of wine for every four guests.

Furniture Arrangement: Decide in advance how you would like the energy to flow during the party. Will you need to move furniture around in advance? Do you have enough seating? Remember to clear out the clutter in advance. Also consider if you want your guests to mingle outdoors, just in case it rains. You will want to have a back up plan if placing items outside and it starts to sprinkle. We've been in this situation before and it paid off by knowing where to move items quickly.

Set the Mood for Lighting: Using low wattage bulbs or candlelight will create the right mood. There are some wonderful candle options available such as battery operated candles. I love using the battery operated tea lights and inserting them in different areas throughout my home. I always allow at least an hour ahead of time to turn them on. We love using dimmer switches throughout our home. Always set these up at least an hour in advance.

Seating Plan: If your doing a formal party, mix people together that may not know each other with place cards. If your doing a informal party don't worry where guests will seat but do allow an area where they can sit down and eat on their own time.

Check Personal Items: Remove any prescriptions from the medicine cabinet. If you have any personal items that you would not want guests to see, move them! You never know how someone will react to a personal item when they have been drinking.

Place for Umbrellas, Hats, Coats: Make a space near your front entry for umbrellas, hats, and coats. If you have a closet in this area make sure it's clutter free and filled with coat hangers. If you don't have a closet, consider purchasing a decorative coat/hat hanger for your entry.

Flowers and Decor: Make a list of decor or flowers you may want to purchase in advance. If you have decorating on your list, do this well in advance, possibly asking a few friends over to help you out.

Cooking: Do as much of the cooking as you can the day before. For foods that will be cooked the day of the party, prepare the prep work such as; dicing, marinating, rinsing vegetables, etc.

Clean Sweep: Allow enough time for a quick clean sweep at least 15 minutes before guests arrive.

Set up the Bar: Set up the bar area the night before. Place any chillable wine in the wine chiller or refrigerator the day before. Uncork the wine 30 minutes before party.

Dishwasher: Plan the day before by running the dishwasher the night before and/or 5 hours before party. You will need to have an empty dishwasher ready for all the dirty goods.

Music and Lights: Set the music and lights an hour before the party.

Wine/Drinking Glasses: If you have the room, chill the wine glasses an hour before the party.

Your ready for the dinner party! Take a sip of the wine you opened and enjoy your party!

Added Tips:

Set a due date or time for each category above.
Designate someone to help you with anything.
Decide in advance if you really want to attempt all items listed above. Don't feel like it, no worries! Hire someone!

Wishing you a fabulous holiday dinner party! Feel free to share any tips below or a story about a past dinner party you hosted.

Kandi Phillips
Awaken Your Space
Designs for Harmonious Living
www.awakenyourspace.com

How Next Top Spiritual Author Relates to Football

2010-04-18T00:08:00Z

I like to get on the treadmill while watching movies and our recent movie watch was, Invincible starring Mark Wahlberg. Watching those guys run around that field gave me motivation during my marathon on the treadmill.   Suddenly, I’m reminded how competition in football is related to the current Next Top Author competition that I’m competing in with over 2,500 authors. (I really like to refer to it as a coop with the other authors.)

In the movie Invincible Vince Papale, played by Mark Wahlberg, a 30-year old bartender from South Philadelphia overcomes the long odds of playing for the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles in 1976. The United States was in a recession with unemployment around 9 percent. This was due to a quadrupling of oil prices by OPEC coupled with high government spending because of the Vietnam War. The period was also followed by the 1973-1974 stock market crash. The period is remarkable for rising unemployment coinciding with rising inflation. (Sound familiar?)

South Philadelphia had something to lift their spirits in the midst of all the chaos that ensued around them. Thirty year old Vince Papale gave them inspiration that brightened the city with new hope for the future. Leaving the woo’s of unemployment behind, the city now had Vince to cheer on and football to stir their minds. However, Vince Papale was fighting his own battle of competition, but was he?

As I watched the movie, I saw the synchronicity in everyday life that’s played out on the field and how much effort it takes to be able to walk out on the field with others cheering you on. Vince had a passion for football without the limitations of his age or what others thought about him. When it came time for the final cut he was humble to throw in the towel but to his amazement coach Dick Vermeil saw the vision within Mark and threw him the key to the field instead.

In the beginning, Vince wasn’t all that receptive on trying out until his friend Tommy had this to say, “Even if you're down there for an hour, you're down there.” This holds true with anything in your life, it doesn’t matter if you make the cut, only that you gave it your best and tried to do something that inspired your spirit. There’s another scene where Vince notices a group of young boys playing football when suddenly the ball is thrown in his cars path. The young boy that runs after the ball reminds Vince of his younger days but what’s more enlightening is the jersey displaying #83, which is Vince’s jersey number. Coincidence? There are times in our lives when we are given reminders that we’re in the flow of following our dreams. It’s when we take notice and push forward with that dream, without looking at the limitations, which tends to hold us back.

In the final scene, Vince is seen going to his locker and pulling out a piece of paper. The paper reads, “Vince, You’ll never go anywhere, you’ll never make any money, and you’ll never make a name for yourself.” Vince rips the piece of paper up, throws it down and goes out on the field to win the game. It wasn’t until he threw out the old limited beliefs that he truly saw the vision of what he could accomplish. Run Vince, Run!!

Each of us has dreams, aspirations, intentions, visualizations, or prayers of what we “could” do in life, but most don’t act upon them or see a clear vision of how to make them a reality. Maybe you have acted upon them only to be disappointed or fed up with all the changes that happen along the way. Vince was faced with many challenges along his path to victory on the field that day, but he pushed through without letting others, or a note that he harbored in his pocket, hold him back to the vision he felt within himself.

I use to let others or disappointments hold me back from my vision. While I have my own ups and downs in life, I still push through making my way to a vision that’s stirring within my soul. This vision is what led me to enter the Next Top Spiritual Author competition. You have a vision within your soul that’s pulling you to follow your dreams, aspirations, intentions, visualizations, or prayers. Run out on the field of life and catch your vision. You deserve it!

Kandi Phillips
http://www.LiveYourIntention.com
http://www.AwakenYourSpace.com/
http://www.KandiPhillips.com/
Vote for Kandi Phillips as Next Top Spiritual Author

American Idol Nah, Next Top Spiritual Author Yeah

2010-04-08T12:39:00Z

Move over American Idol and Dancing with the Stars, now there’s, “The Next Top Spiritual Author”. Last year I self-published a mini book through a program conducted by Robert Evans. The lessons learned through the program were invaluable in enabling me to become clear and concise about my message and time management in daily writing. The paper back mini book that was self published is titled, Live Your Intention – Open the Door to Your Life’s Journey. Due to the costs associated with publishing a book I decided to break up the chapters into nine mini books, thus the creation of the Live Your Intention mini book series. Until……, I receive a message from Robert telling me about the Next Top Spiritual Author competition that he and James Twyman put together.

Excitedly, I click yes to enter the contest because regardless if I win, I knew the valuable tools that would be offered during the contest would help build my knowledge of what it takes to get published. Plus, if I won, I could publish all the chapters of the Live Your Intention mini book series into one book. WOO HOO! As I listen to the podcasts that are available to the authors I realize that I will have my work cut out for me. This wasn’t going to be an easy challenge, but isn’t that what intention is all about? For instance, look at Walt Disney; he was fired from a job for not having “imagination”. He would walk through the orange groves in central Florida with the intention of creating something magical for the world. Can you see a clear image of your intentions while using challenge as a motivator? I have learned to say, “YES” to this question!

I welcome you to follow me through my journey of the Next Top Spiritual Author competition along with over 2,500 other authors from around the world. One grand prize winner will be rewarded by Hampton Roads Publishing with a publishing contract, as well as a $50,000 promotional package.

The competition consists of four rounds that narrow down to four finalists and one winner. The first round will account for 75% of outside votes with the remaining 25% from fellow authors. I, Kandi Phillips, would be deeply honored if you could listen to the three minute book pitch and vote for me as the Next Top Spiritual Author. Also, if you could help me by sharing my message with your family, friends, co-workers, and business associates. Cast your vote for Kandi Phillips March 29 – May 3 at www.KandiPhillips.com

The book that I’m working towards publishing is “Live Your Intention – Own Your Power”. You can learn more about the book and get a copy of the first chapter by visiting the books website at www.LiveYourIntention.com

I’m deeply grateful and passionate about sharing my message with others. We now have a Live Your Intention Facebook group where you can post your daily intentions and also take part in future group intention events. Please vote for me as the Next Top Spiritual Author and ask others to help me “imagine my intentions into reality”.

I have one more intentional request to share with you. Can you share my message with your family, friends, co-workers, and business associates? I would be deeply honored!

Love and Infinite Light,

Kandi Phillips

The Love Dare - Love is Impossible Love is Jesus Christ

2010-02-13T14:03:00Z

Day 19 Dare: Look back over the dares from previous days. Were there some that seemed impossible to you? Have you realized your need for God to change your heart and to give you the ability to love? Ask God to show you where you stand with him while asking for the strength and grace to settle your eternal destination.
Day 20 Dare: Dare to take God as his word. Dare to trust Jesus Christ for salvation. Dare to pray, "Lord Jesus, I'm a sinner but you have shown your love for me by dying to forgive my sins, and you have proven your power to save me from death by your resurrection. Lord, change my heart, and save me by your grace.

There is a secret each of us is holding but most are unaware of. Day 19 speaks of this secret, the secret of unconditional love out of our own heart. The book tells us that it's impossible to give unconditional love because it's beyond our capabilities. We may extend acts of kindness and unselfishness towards others but to love unselfishly and unconditionally is another matter. Unconditional love is something only God can do and he does so through us. When you think about the times that your love has failed through lying, lust, overreacting, or thinking evil thoughts you can then understand that you cannot give unconditional love on your own.

Failure is what exposes mankind's sinful condition. We ALL fall short of God's commands because we all demonstrate selfishness, hatred, and pride. Unless you come to love God then you cannot love another. You can't give what you don't have when you don't call upon the higher reserves and resources. When you stop resisting the love of God then his love will pour through your heart unto others.

Failures can be forgiven when you put your life into the hands of the One that gave it to you. Today is the day of salvation and reconnecting to your spiritual roots. Maybe you've known Christ and have walked in fellowship with him. This is the day to be reminded of what he's done for you. We are all born into this world as sinners, unclean and with filthy garments. God sent his son, Jesus Christ, as a humbled servant so that he may bore our sins in his body on the cross. "When you have received this new life and love as your own, you are free to love in ways you've never been capable before."

"The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love." (I John 4:8) God loves you through your flaws and imperfections. As the result of Jesus Christ's life, God's love made the greatest sacrifice to meet our greatest need. This graces us to walk in the fullness and blessings of his love, now and forever. Look at your spouse with this same unconditional love, see past the flaws and imperfections and choose to love. You may not be able to meet their needs as God but you can become an instrument of God's to meet the needs of your partner. After you receive the love of God through Jesus Christ, then you are ready to live the dare of love.

Today's lessons remind me of a previous day's lesson where we are to let go and let God. Wash our hands free of nagging or stating out loud about what our spouses should or shouldn't do and instead pray about what we would like to happen in their lives. But also what is happening in our own life. We are not Gods and should not act as such. We are instruments of God serving a higher purpose for all. It feels so much better to lift the lid of your life instead of letting it boil over with anger, resentment, greed, or ego. When you come to know that there is a higher divine guiding you along to serve your purpose in life you can truly love others along the journey. The next time you listen to your partner, look at them as if God's eyes are looking upon them. Listen to them as God would listen to them. Love them as God would love them. Ask to be an instrument of God, to support your partner in whatever is needed for your love to be strong.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love Promotes Intimacy Love Seeks to Understand

2010-02-12T12:55:00Z

Day 17 Dare: Determine to guard your mate's secrets (unless they are dangerous to them or to you) and pray for them. Talk with your partner and resolve to demonstrate love in spite of these issues. Really listen to them when they share personal thoughts and struggles with you. Make them feel safe.
Day 18 Dare: Prepare a special dinner at home, just for the two of you. Get to know your partner during your time together while giving determination to having an enjoyable dinner with your partner.

Of all relationships throughout your life, the relationship with your partner is the most intimate. All that you hide from others is made noticeable to your spouse or significant other. We are born unto this world with a deep desire to love, be loved, and accepted by others. When the most intimate depths of our soul is uncovered by our partners it is welcomed with great love or pushed away with shame. A home with a partner should feel safe, secure and sacred for both of you. If you do not feel safe, you are then tempted to seek it somewhere else. This could be through flirtations towards another, comfort of work, outside hobbies, or surrounding yourself with people that respect and accept you. But you should not feel pressured into changing yourself in order to seek approval from your mate. You should not live in fear or feel like your home has territorial boundaries.

Don't lecture your partner if they have secrets, instead act as a healing agent in offering loving support by listening. Maybe some of the secrets have to be accepted because this is their history or upbringing. You cannot change where they have been but you can support them in where they want to go. "Loving them well should be your life's work." God knows our secrets and accepts who we are without turning us away. Reach out to your partner with grace, understanding, and accepting them for who they are. But not in a way that barges into their lives, rather by standing at the door and knocking, only to be there with love when they want to open the door. "If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me." (Revelation 3:20)

Do you remember the days of learning about your partner? If your partner had a favorite past time you would read or learn about this so you could have a meaningful conversation with them. Maybe your partner loves football, loves to cook, or is health conscious. You would look for ways to be a part of what they are passionate about. Ask yourself, how much do I know about my partner?

Maybe you've been together for years but find that you haven't taken much notice to what your partner enjoys any longer. Or that your perfect prince or princess has flaws. Consider this, "If the amount of time you studied your spouse before marriage were equal to a high school diploma, then you should continue to learn about your mate until you gain a college, master's, and ultimately a doctorate degree."

Questions from page 87 of The Love Dare:

Do you know his or her greatest hopes and dreams?
Do you fully understand how they prefer to give and receive love?
Do you know what your spouse's greatest fears are and why they struggle with them?

You may not understand everything that is molded as one within your partner but it's worth the time to invest in studying every aspect of who they are.

Take time to work through the questions and get to know your partner all over again. We had fun with this! David and I are enjoying the lessons each day. Sometimes we let days run together to absorb them more, plus on some days our schedules are different. We have been doing things for one another without asking which is wonderful.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love is Honorable Love Intercedes

2010-02-12T01:40:00Z

Day 15 Dare: Choose a way to show honor and respect to your spouse that is above your normal routine. It may be holding the door for her, putting his clothes away for him, or the way you listen and speak in your communication. Show your mate that he or she is highly esteemed in your eyes.
Day 16 Dare: Begin praying today for your spouse's heart. Pray for three specific areas where you desire for God to work in your partner's life and in your marriage.

Honor is the word of focus for day 15 in the book, The Love Dare. By giving respect and high esteem to your mate you honor them with great worth. We listen intently to our partners with great respect for what they have to say. The words that are spoken towards us by our spouse or partner are taken seriously. When we say something that is hurtful or in a condescending tone it not only affects your partner but also your own honor. The next time you speak to your partner, look them in the eye and acknowledge them as a valuable person in your life. Honor them as a divine being from God with gifts to share with you and the world.

The Love Dare moves into the word "holy" and how we should look at our mates as holy beings. Not that they are perfect but rather to look at them as a unique special person with a higher purpose. A person that is sacred, honored, praised, and defended by you. In the book you read about how brides treat their wedding dresses as a sacred holy item that is protected. Marriage is considered "holy matrimony", a union of commitment and relationship unknown to another. You share everything as a union, as one.

Maybe you no longer feel this way about your partner. Instead you feel disrespect, embarrassment, disgust, or your attitude towards this person is nothing but negative. "Love honors even when it's rejected." When you give honor to your partner, even if it's not reciprocated, you are honoring yourself. Your biggest sacrifice is to give and send love to your partner.

You cannot change your partner! That is one very known factor, however you can reach into their heart with all the love that you give and send unto them. If you try to change your partner you will end up frustrated and quite literally may think you are going insane. Quoted from the book on page 76:
"A farmer cannot make a seed grow into a fruitful crop. He cannot argue, manipulate, or demand it to bear fruit. But he can plant the seed into fertile soil, give it water and nutrients, protect it from weeds, and then turn it over to God."

The author tells us that he cannot guarantee that The Love Dare will change your partner but that's not what the book is really about. "It's about daring you to love." If you work through the dares on your own it's highly likely that your partner and others around you will be affected and take notice of the beautiful flower that blooms from within yourself. It could take weeks, months, or years but by working within your own fertile soil you will be able to pull the weeds out the partnerships with others. In order to do this you need something more powerful than yourself or your partner, you need prayer.

Prayer is a spiritual phenomenon and gives amazing results by an unlimited powerful God.

Jesus said to pray instead of quitting. (Luke 18:1)
Prayer can bring peace to your storms. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Prayer can make the difference. (Acts 12:1-17)

God is not a genie in the bottle but he does love and desire to have a relationship with you. Prayer is the key to this relationship from a humble heart. God does not give you insight to your partner's faults by mistake, it's for kneeling in prayer for your partner. Nagging and complaining isn't getting you anywhere but through prayer you can wipe your hands clean as you watch God work his wondrous gifts in the relationship. Pray for your spouse to be loving, helpful, uplifting, happy, and fulfilled. Then pray for yourself. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you". (Matthew 7:7)

After working through the days lessons, I'm queenly reminded that there are various spiritual traditions on how or when to pray. Some use prayer in the form of dance, chanting, singing, affirmations, intentions, over meals, by physical gestures, keeping silent, in group settings, through meditation, or by using physical objects such as burning candles or making the sign of the cross. I believe each of you should look within and follow what you feel serves the highest good of others and yourself. We are all here on this earth experiencing different religions and could not possibly be raised or live through each experience. I honor each and every person reading this blog no matter your religion or color of skin. I truly feel within my soul that we are all beautiful beings from the higher divine experiencing a different set of views to learn from one another. In the following days of The Love Dare I ask that you fill in whatever higher being serves you.

David and I are always doing things for one another. After living with a person for so many years, you learn when they need help with something, if they are not feeling well, when they are in a loving mood, or in a bad mood. We look around the home for things that we can do to help each one another. David isn't a big cook and would eat a TV dinner every night if it was up to him however I like to eat healthy foods. Over the last few years he started helping me with the salad making and kitchen cleanup plus he has tried a few recipes on his own out of a book. I love to cook but don't always have time. With my husband's help it's more fun. We turn on music, talk about our day, and chop up ingredients for a salad, which we eat just about every night, and sometimes we have a glass of wine while we're cooking.

Each day I meditate and visualize and send intentions out into the universe. I always give prayer to others as I know the power of giving. It's through these efforts that our love has grown strong and other wonderful things have come into our lives. But I have given my power to the higher divine. I use to get so frustrated with others but through the power of prayer and intention it feels nourishing for my soul to let go of these frustrations and know without a doubt that there is a purpose for all that is. And all that will be.

Love and Infinite Light,
Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love Fights Fair Love Takes Action

2010-02-11T01:49:00Z

Day 13 Dare: Talk with your spouse about establishing healthy rules of engagement. If your mate is not ready for this, then write out your own personal rules to "fight" by. Resolve to abide by them when the next disagreement occurs.
Day 14 Dare: Purposely neglect an activity you would normally do so you can spend quality time with your spouse. Do something he or she would love to do or a project they'd really like to work on. Just be together.

The book, The Love Dare, tells us that conflict is inevitable between a couple regardless if we enjoy it. Each person comes into a relationship with unpleasant baggage that isn't unpacked over night. Rather, the contents of this baggage is discovered over a period of time as we pull out different pieces day by day. When a couple unveils the sinful and selfish contents of this baggage the prize that we once were in their eyes seems to diminish. Welcome to humanity 101!

Arguments begin to spark over work, health, in-laws, financial needs, taking care of children, or the upkeep of the home. Piece by piece these arguments break down the strong connection you once had as a unified couple. We all go through it, however not all couples can weather through the bumpy roads that the baggage unveils. Words are thrown at us like vicious venom which leads a person to put up the barrier of pride. We become judgmental towards the other person that leads to more vicious venom until it's like a tornado stirring around with no means to an end. Love is what helps us to calm down the stirring within and in turn become more trusting towards the other person. In the book we are guided to write out a set of boundaries for dealing with conflict. "We" boundaries and "Me" boundaries.
There are examples listed on page 62 and 63 of The Love Dare.

The Love Dare tells us that our journey through the Love Dare is to learn not to follow our heart. Rather we should lead it and put our feelings and emotions in the back seat. Couples will not always feel like being loving. "Love that chooses to love is just as powerful as love that feels like loving." When we are set in our singular unit of being we stand in the power of disapprovement towards another. We give power to the bickering and petty things in life instead of leading our heart to the delightment of our partner. Give desire to your partner by listening to their conversation, seeking their companionship, and remembering why you fell in love with that person's personality.

Take time today to laugh, flirt, kiss, or hug your partner. Give them deep abiding love without any restrictions or judgment. You are the only one that can take responsibility in relearning to love your partner for better or worse, richer or poorer, sickness and health.

The "we" boundaries in our relationship:

We will never go to bed without saying "I Love You".
We will not go to bed angry.
We will not bring up old things from the past.
We will leave the room before a conflict escalates.
We will do whatever it takes to resolve an issue in our relationship.

The "me" boundaries in our relationship:

I will listen to what the other person has to say without jumping to conclusions.
I will respect the other person if they feel they need to leave the room.
I will give the other person space and time for reflection.
I will support the other person if they are having a bad day. If we are both having a bad day, we resolve to give each other a foot massage.

Love and Light,
Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love Cherishes Love Lets the Other Win

2010-02-10T01:01:00Z

Day 11 Dare: What need does your spouse have that you could meet today? Can you run an errand? Give a back rub or foot massage? Is there housework you could help with? Choose a gesture that says, "I Cherish You" and do it with a smile.
Day 12 Dare: Demonstrate love by willingly choosing to give in to an area of disagreement between you and your spouse. Tell them you are putting their preference first.

The book, The Love Dare, starts off by telling us a story about a man having trouble with his car. After finding out that the cost for repair is too expensive for the age of the car, he gets rid of the car to spend his funds on a new model. Another man crushes his hand while working with equipment. The hospital finds through x-rays that all of his bones are broken. Although, he has to use up all of his savings, he willingly pays to reconstruct his hand back to normal. Both stories are reasonable however our culture treats marriage like the first man with the trade off for a new model. When you truly understand the deep bond that you have with your partner you realize that it's like the second man that uses his life savings to repair what is broken.

As we enter marriage with a partner we begin meshing all of our worldly goods together, even taking on the same last name. Our identities are no longer as one individual but rather a unity joined as one. As time passes, the unity seems to spread apart and leaves us feeling disappointed in the other partner. "Husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it." Ephesian 5:28-29

In the book, the author talks about the flip side to this verse. "When you mistreat your mate, you are also mistreating yourself. Your spouse cannot experience joy or pain, blessing or cursing, without it also affecting you." This statement is very true and I know I've felt this, have you? This reminds me of The Shadow Effect by Debbie Ford. We project ourselves onto others without realizing it. It's when you can take a step back to view your own story or actions and how it affects everyone else around you. If you want to live in a happy marriage, then be happy with your partner, it will eventually reflect back to you.

Make a list of things that you and your partner disagree on. You may even make a long list within a few minutes. While you could continue to live in the moment of acting out your disagreements every day, this would not resolve any of your issues. Someone has to give in at some point in order to see any changes in a relationship. Lift the barriers of stubbornness to find willingness knocking at your door. A willingness to pull up the parking break brings cooperation into your conversations. The book gives this example, "It's like a palm tree by the ocean that endures the greatest winds because it knows how to gracefully bend."

Pride and discomfort will be your two new best friends and if you want to have a loving, lasting relationship with your partner, you will love your new best friends. You may think that by giving in others will view you as foolish, loosing a fight, or loosing control of your partner but the fact that the argument is more important than your marriage is foolishness. This doesn't mean your partner is always right but when you give them the consideration of their views then you are giving them value. "Instead of treating your partner like an enemy or someone to be guarded against, start by treating them as your closest, most honored friend."

David and I have learned how to keep pride and discomfort in our back pocket. We visit them just about every week and sometimes on a daily basis. It's not easy giving in to something when you honestly feel you are right but when you step into the other persons reflection you see things in a different perspective. This was hard for me in the beginning days of our relationship. I had come out of a bitter divorce, raising two children, and trying to create a life on my own. Now here was another person I had to let into my life and give space too. It wasn't until I saw how David was always there to support me in whatever decision was made that I realized that he was giving in more than I was. I truly appreciate Pride and Discomfort for teaching me how to listen to his view point. We are usually saying the same thing but in a misunderstanding way. It's when you step into your partners light and take on what they are seeing that you truly appreciate their story.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love Makes Good Impressions Love is Unconditional

2010-02-09T03:19:00Z

Day 9 Dare: Greet your spouse with a smile and enthusiasm. Reflect your love for them in a greeting. How do you greet your partner each day?
Day 10 Dare: Do something out of the ordinary that proves that your love is based on your choice. Wash the car, clean the kitchen, buy/make dessert, or fold laundry. Demonstrate your love out of sheer joy and being their partner.

Learning to demonstrate patience, kindness, and encouragement is not always an easy task when we are bombarded with outside influences. Upon entering the door from a long day we may want to just let out everything out that has built up through out the day. Our partners are typically the ones that get the brunt of all the energy that has built up throughout the day.

The book, The Love Dare, tells us that you can tell a lot about the state of a couple by the way they greet each other, how they speak to each other, and the physical contact between them. In the Bible, apostle Paul took time to encourage his readers to greet one another. He also asked the Romans to greet seventy-seven of his friends and loved ones while also listing them by name. Jesus noted how the Pagans greeted others kindly and being godly includes being humble enough to acknowledge your enemies with kindness. How do you greet others that you know? How do you greet others in public?

Your energy speaks clearly through your voice, body language, and actions. When someone greets you in a kindly manner you feel valued and important. How your greet society sets the tone for the next actions. Are they positive and healthy? Or are they negative and unhealthy? Love sets the sails into the wind. What kind of love energy are you sending into the world? Choose love and your choices will be clear and concise unto the world.

Why do you love your wife or husband? What would you say if someone asked you this question? Can you remember what you would have said years ago? How has your response changed over the years? If the reason you love your partner is because of their qualities that have diminished over the years then your basis for love is over. The only way you can love your partner is through unconditional love. "Love can only be determined by the one choosing to love."

The book, The Love Dare, goes into more detail about how the Bible refers to love by using the Greek word, agape. There are two types of love; phileo (friendship), and eros (sexual love). Both are important in a marriage but if one is built and rests on the foundation of one type of love then the relationship is unstable. "If a man says to his wife, I have fallen out of love with you, he is actually saying, I never loved you unconditionally to begin with." When you allow God to grow his love within you then love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. (I Corinthians 13:7) Say I love you period instead of saying I love you because.......

David and I had a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant on day 7 and 8. He wanted to take me to a sports bar but I asked if we could go to another place that was more romantic. We had a great time even if we had to run through the torrential rain. We spent most of our weekend getting the files organized for both of our business's. I realized how different we are in our way of thinking. During a session of teaching him how to do some things in Quickbooks, he got frustrated with me because he didn't understand how I was explaining a task to him while I was getting frustrated because I was repeating myself about how to accomplish what he was trying to do. In the end we had a great laugh as I acted out how he needed each thing departmentalized and broken down into little boxes, which explains his high metal energy. I can visualize something, look at the end result, and build upon the departments as I go along, which explains my high fire and wood energy aspects. David needs hard facts about something while I jump in head first and worry about the facts later. You can see where we have differences of opinions on occasions however we always mesh well together through it all. We are each others yin and yang.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love Believes the Best Love is Not Jealous

2010-02-05T01:30:00Z

Day 7 Dare: Get two sheets of paper. Write positive things about your partner on sheet one and negative things on sheet two. Point out one positive attribute from the positive list and thank your partner for having this characteristic. Put the sheets away.
Day 8 Dare: Determine to be your partners biggest fan and reject any thoughts of jealousy. Take Day 7's list of negative things and burn it. Tell your spouse how glad you are about a success he or she recently enjoyed.

Being a visual person, I love Day 7's depiction of two different rooms that we store in our heart. In the Appreciation Room we store feelings that are positive and encouraging about our partner. We visit this room periodically, however at the beginning stages of a relationship you visited this room all the time. Within this room, the walls are filled with kind words and phrases describing all the good things about your partner. This could be words such as; honest, intelligent, diligent worker, wonderful cook, beautiful eyes, etc. These words are discoveries that you found and picked up along the way during your time together. Possibly, you have lost touch with this room but it IS there! Sit quietly away from everyone else, close your eyes, and dig deep into the depths of your heart. Think about all the wonderful positive attributes your partner possesses. With practice, you will be able to see the light in the Appreciation room. If this room seems like it's down a long dark corridor that's because you have been visiting another room far too long!

In the Depreciation Room, the walls might be filled with words that are negative, hurtful, unpleasant, and downright ugly. Things that are irritating or bothersome to you are stored in this room. This is the room that you visit when you look for the weaknesses, failures, bad habits, or hurtful words. You store your ammunition here for the next big argument. Statements are rehearsed and put away in this room as a way to build up your plot to win that next big argument. If you've been thinking about divorce, this is where you've stored the steps to make it happen. If your at this point, then this room is getting LOTS of attention from you. This room is filled with light while the Appreciation Room is looking a little dim. And you may say that the things you have stored here are true but so are the things stored in the Appreciation Room.

Take time today to write, "COVERED IN LOVE" on the walls of the Depreciation Room. When you start visiting the Appreciation Room the light will shine bright here once again. Have fun and sit a while in the Appreciation Room. Even if you think they don't deserve it, only you can make the decision to take up residence in this room. Make it a beautiful room once again, it was in the past, why not now?

Jealousy is one of the strongest feelings we have all felt. It's like a virus burning through your veins. "Wrath is fierce and anger is a flood, but who can stand before jealousy?" Proverbs 27:4
According to the book, The Love Dare, there are two forms of jealousy; legitimate and illegitimate. One is based upon love while the other is based upon envy. When you see your partner with another you spark legitimate jealousy because you are longing to have back what you no longer have. In the book, The Love Dare, it discusses how the Bible describes God as being righteously jealous for humans. Not that he wants what we have but he longs for us, he desires for us to keep him as our first love. "The lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." Deuteronomy 4:24

Selfishness is rooted in illegitimate jealousy when we are moved by envy. Are you jealous of your neighbors, co-workers, a family member, or maybe your partner? This causes time spent on hatred towards this person and bitterness that blocks you from your own success. It's human nature to want others to succeed but only if their success is not more than your own. This can be painful if you are a very selfish person. "Instead of congratulating them, you fume in anger and think ill of them." Jealousy can consume every living cell within your body if you don't learn how diffuse the anger and in turn learn how to love others. When you radiate from love you are appreciative and thankful for all that surrounds you, even if another seems to have more than you. But having more does not make them better than you because anything good that surrounds you is a catalyst for more to enter into your life. Love is not selfish and refuses to let jealousy in through the door. A partner that is more successful should be celebrated and applauded for working hard and giving so much to the world through their efforts. Remember, behind every successful person is another successful person, they did not become successful without those around them!!

Our Love Dare:
David's list of the Appreciation Room:
Kandi is my soul mate. She is beautiful, smart, funny, patient, and compassionate.
She is a loving wife, mother, daughter, and sister.
She has great passion and dedication.
*I love her holistic approach to life.* The number one positive attribute.
I enjoy waking up and find myself lucky to spend a new day with her.

Kandi's list of the Appreciation Room:
David is loving, smart, funny, positive, adorable, patient, and gentle.
He is friendly, a team motivator, conscientious, detail oriented, and focused.
*He cares deeply about humanity and the future of others.* The number one positive attribute.
He is passionate, happy, inspiring, and I'm impressed by all that he does.
He is verbally astute, and a great engineer.
I feel truly blessed to have him in my life each day!

Our Depreciation list for each other only had two items. We did not share them with each other because we are going to burn them tomorrow night after our HOT date! Yes, he asked me out on a date. I'm so excited and will let it be a surprise. So there will not be a blog tomorrow night. I will be busy with my soul mate!

When David and I read our lists to each other we are finding consistencies in what we love about one another. We also know what we need to work on and understand that it does not happen over night. Fortunately, we have been making changes over the last few years by really listening to one another. This all came about after an event with family members that happened about four years ago. Blame cannot be placed on one person because we all had lessons to learn. It's funny because one of my friends posted this on Facebook today: Sometimes in life its better not to get involved in others affairs... In the end....Remember you end up being the bad one. This had a lot to do with the event that almost broke up our marriage but in the end David and I are stronger. I humbly thank those that plotted against us because it made our marriage grow!

Would you like to try The Love Dare? We are not an affiliate with this book but you can get it here.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love is Not Rude or Irritable

2010-02-03T23:05:00Z

Day 5 Dare: Ask your spouse to tell you three things that cause him/her to be uncomfortable or irritated with you. You must do so without attacking them or justifying your behavior. This is from their perspective only.
Day 6 Dare: Choose today to react to tough circumstances in your marriage in loving ways instead of with irritation. Begin by making a list of the areas where you need to add margin to your schedule. Then list any wrong motivations that you need to release from your life.

Many couples are rude to one another by making sly remarks or act in a way that is embarrassing or irritating. The person acting in a way that is embarrassing or giving rude comments may think that it's insignificant however the person on the receiving end feels uncomfortable or belittled. When we are driven by love for another we intentionally act or talk in ways that are pleasant for our partner. We avoid the things that are irritating or frustrating to the other person.

While at home, partners typically act different than they would in front of strangers. Why do you think reality shows are such a big hit? Because most people can relate to the real life of these shows. In the book, The Love Dare, an example is given of a person who is barking or pouting around the house, but when the door bell chimes, they open the door smiling, upbeat, and act as if nothing is going on. The Love Dare tells us that if you dare to love then you will always give your best to others. Love motivates us to make changes in our behavior or otherwise suffer through a relationship. Why? Because we are not truly striving to be the best we can for another but also for ourselves. When we walk in the path of love, we are truly inspired and open to all that is.

The Love Dare gives two main reasons why people are rude; ignorance and selfishness. We are born ignorant of how to eat and need help and training on learning how do things. We may know that we are being ignorant or selfish as adults, but we tend to be blind and break all the rules at others expense.

Questions to ask yourself from The Love Dare page 22:

How does your spouse feel about the way you speak and act around them?
How does your behavior affect your partners sense of worth and self-esteem?
Would your partner say you're a blessing, or that you're condescending and embarrassing?

Three guiding principles when it comes to practicing etiquette with your partner page 23:

"Treat your mate the same way you want to be treated." Luke 6:31
Be as considerate to your spouse as you are to strangers and coworkers.
Consider what your partner already asked you to do or not do. If in doubt, then ask.

Some couples look for the opportunity to get upset with their partner. They will be quick to take full advantage of expressing how hurt or frustrated they are. This is the opposite of love. (HUH? I thought we were to speak our truth? But I love my husband.) Then I read this in the book, "To be irritable means, to be near the point of a knife." Ok, I get that this is not a comfortable feeling but if we don't speak our truth aren't we just bottling everything up inside. Then I read about pressure.......

Love doesn't turn sour under pressure and yield a major reaction from a minor problem. (This make sense.) "Love doesn't get angry or hurt unless there is a legitimate and just reason in the sight of God." quoted from the book. This quote kinda bothers me. When does God point out or exclude something that is legitimate or within reason? To me, God has no judgment and looks at us all with divine eyes of wisdom as a whole unit. So if someone is hurt because they are robbed, is this within reason of God for the person that is robbed to be angry or hurt? Then I realize that I'm reading between the lines as most women do. Let's move on.....

There are 2 key reasons that cause someone to be irritable; stress and selfishness. Stress weighs your down like a brick, with nowhere to go. You feel weakened and cranky so you take it out on others. Selfishness can either bring on a sour response or a sweet response, when the pressure is on. When we are easily angered this indicates that there is a hidden area of selfishness or insecurity where love is supposed to rule. The Love Dare tells us that selfishness has other masks such as; lust, bitterness, greed, and pride. However, through love you can forgive instead of holding a grudge. (The person that was robbed would then not hold a grudge through love?) Love calms the heart and appreciates what you have and be content rather than rushing into the next filler that serves you only for small amount of time.

Our Love Dare:
David's 3 things about Kandi that are uncomfortable or irritating for day 5:
Scolding or feeling like a child about something he should have done.
Mixed signals or expected to read Kandi's mind.
Balancing time and letting go of what is currently on your plate even if you don't have the ability.

David's list of areas to add margin to schedule:
Take time to prioritize schedule
Listen and understand Kandi
Take time to have fun with Kandi
Show more affection

Kandi's 3 things about David that are uncomfortable or irritating for day 5:
Watching TV or a movie while I'm doing laundry, cooking, or other family responsibilities.
Not dealing with issues at hand, instead acting as if it will go away.
Balancing time for personal responsibilities that would help me so we can have more fun time.

Kandi's list of areas to add margin to schedule:
Scheduling my time more proficiently and letting others help.
Letting things go that are no longer serving me in my business or personal life.
Being more affectionate with David.

David was first to tell me the three things that were uncomfortable or irritating. At first I felt on edge but I truly listened with an open heart, we both did. It was really great to listen and talk without letting it build up to the boiling point of a volcano erupting without notice. During these lessons, I realize that things flow smoother for us because of the work that we've been doing over the years. Plus David is an open minded person with a beautiful heart. At first, I was reluctant to post about such personal testimonies but you know we are all learning and experiencing issues through life. It's when we can be humble to "what is" that we are open to the great expanse of life and love.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love is Not Selfish Love is Thoughtful

2010-02-03T01:15:00Z

Day 3 Dare: Along with restraining from negative comments, buy your significant other something that says, "I was thinking of you today."
Day 4 Dare: Contact your significant other sometime during the business of the day. Have no agenda other than asking how he or she is doing and if there is anything you could do for them.

Our appearances, feelings, and personal desires have been taught by our culture to be the top priority in our lives, a world enamored with "self". However, when bringing another into our lives through a committed relationship can be dangerous when living by the desires of our culture. Selfish actions are seen in children and adults by the way others are mistreated. When you point this out to another you are really pointing it out in yourself. Without pointing that finger around to self you are only being hypocritical about your partners selfish acts. We accept the low standards of ourselves but expect high expectations of another. We are all selfish!

When we put our own interests, desires, and priorities in front of our partners then we are being selfish. Even when we do something nice that in the end gives you bragging rights or manipulates your partner, this is being selfish. "The bottom line is that you either make decisions out of love for others or love for yourself." When you say no to what you want and yes to your partner you act from love. You can still experience happiness through the happiness of your partner because love leads to inner joy. A partner will truly know when you are acting from love instead of selfishness. You will then loose yourself to the greater purpose of the partnership. But if it is hard for you to sacrifice your own desires then there is a deeper problem with selfishness that only you can admit.

Questions to ask yourself on page 13 from the book, The Love Dare:

Do I truly want what's best for my partner?
Do I want them to feel loved by me?
Do they believe I have their best interests in mind?
Do they see me as looking out for myself first?

The book tells us that we have a reputation in the eyes of others but especially our partner. Is this a loving reputation?
"Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves" Philippians 2:3

Loving thoughts become actions like the emotional waves that run through us when thinking of our partner. Remember when you first met your partner and fell in love, all the thoughts and well planned out visuals that ran through your thoughts. You rehearsed what to say, what you would wear, how you would speak, where you would go, or how you wanted to spend the rest of your life with that person. You found yourself telling this person that you could not stop thinking about them.

But this typically changes after winning the man or woman. At this point, we feel that we have done what is needed and can carry on with our lives as we had before entering into partnership with this person. We can have the same wants, desires, and priorities in life. However, you have added another person into the mix of your future and when you start ignoring the wants, desires, and priorities of this other person your universe begins to change. You find yourself not only remembering things for yourself but also for another such as, anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and events that include both of you. When you begin leaving this person out of the mix things start to stir the pot, so to speak. When you bring thoughtfulness into the picture of your partnership you are presented with great opportunities of demonstrating your love for the other person, an extension of yourself.

Men struggle with thoughtfulness while women struggle with reading between the lines with hints. A man can give full attention to one thing and forget about the rest of the world while a woman is multi-conscious giving attention to many different things at one time. Women think about how something will affect everyone else in the picture as a whole while the man is point blank on one thing. This is not to say that men are selfish, it's just how they are wired to focus attention on one thing and be good at it. "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him" Genesis 2:18

Men think in terms of, "this is how it is" while women can read into something and make more out of the story. Women hint about what they want while men just say what they want. This is what leads into misunderstandings in relationships. And when a couple doesn't understand this about each other things can really get out of hand and spark into flames. A man get's frustrated about all the riddles while the woman wonders why a man is so inconsiderate.

Love requires thoughtfulness from both sides to build a bridge of patience, kindness, and selflessness. With love you learn how to meet in the middle with respect and appreciation for the others unique thoughts. "A husband should listen to his wife and learn to be considerate of her unspoken messages. A wife should learn to communicate truthfully and not say one thing while meaning another." Engage your mind before engaging your lips.

Questions from the book page 18, The Love Dare:

When was the last time you spent a few minutes thinking about how you could better understand and demonstrate love to your spouse?
What immediate need can you meet?
What's the next event you could be preparing for? Anniversary, birthday, holiday?

David had to leave early this morning so I had to read the book and leave him a message about what the love dares were for the day. I left late morning and did not arrive back until after 6:00pm however upon leaving a clients office I saw two voice mails from him. He told me how much he loved me and that he had a surprise for me. I called him back since I had a 45 minute drive to say that I loved him and asked if there was anything I could bring home or get for him. Deep down I felt a little upset with him because the night before he had promised to help me with something the next morning so I could leave earlier for a clients office. Well, needless to say, this morning upon waking he said he forgot that he had to leave early and left me to take care of what I was hoping he would help me with. I was an hour late getting to a clients office and all the while in the morning I was really trying to stay positive about it but felt he had been selfish by not being honest with me the night before.

On my way home I picked up a truck and car magazine because I knew how much he enjoyed reading them. This was my way of saying I was thinking of him. He was very happy with his gift and looked through one of them over dinner. David's gift to me was a DVD rental from the library, Beginners Latin Dancing. I knew he had been listening to me as I've been talking about learning couple's Latin Dancing. (Hint, hint, read between the lines.) Later this evening we did discuss the morning plan changes and how I felt he should have been upfront instead of making a promise he knew he couldn't keep. This also presented an opportunity for me to understand that he truly did not understand how he could help me because I was not clear on my intentions and wanted him to read between the lines. At first he did not want to discuss what had happened that morning, which is a typical thing he tends to go on with things as if nothing has happened, all is well and good. This is the linear side of a man kicking in, it's done it's over with let's move on, when in a woman's mind, we want to talk about it and then we can move on.

Well enough personal stuff for now, David's not too keen on me being open about our love dares through the blog but everyone goes through it. It's when you can meet in the middle and move forward in live with your love. And we do this, everyday!

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

The Love Dare - Love is Patient and Kind

2010-02-02T00:35:00Z

Today my husband and I are starting, The Love Dare, by Stephen and Alex Kendrick with Lawrence Kimbrough. This book is based off the move, Fireproof. The back cover reads:
"Unconditional Love is eagerly promised at weddings, but rarely practiced in real life. As a result, romantic hopes are often replaced with disappointment in the home. But it doesn't have to stay that way. The Love Dare is a 40 day challenge for husbands and wifes to understand and practice unconditional love. Whether your marriage is hanging by a thread or healthy and strong, The Love Dare is a journey you need to take. It's time to learn the keys to finding true intimacy and developing a dynamic marriage. Take the Dare!"

The first page reads:
"Receive this as a warning. This forty day journey cannot be taken lightly. It is a challenging and often difficult process, but an incredibly fulfilling one. To take this dare requires a resolute mind and a steadfast determination. It is not meant to be sampled or briefly tested, and those who quit early will forfeit the greatest benefits. If you will commit to a day at a time for forty days, the results could change your life and your marriage. Consider it a dare, from others who have done it before you."

Ok so now I'm a little on edge about trying this. What will happen? Will we make it through the dares? Will we quit early? Well I'm willing to give it a shot. Hey I got married in the first place, oh yeah, I've been married before so this should really be interesting. When you think about it, you marry someone and sign a contract that you really don't give much thought to at the time. However, three years into the marriage and some might question why they did it in the first place. Take me for instance, my first marriage began at the age of 15 and pregnant. I had NO CLUE what I was getting myself into and I signed up for it without questioning my intentions so why would this be any different? We never really know where the road in life will lead us but if we give up when we question it then we are really missing out on growing in life. So, here goes............

This morning David and I talked about the dares for day one and two. We are doubling up on the days because we want to renew our marriage vows in Feb instead of in March. Well, this is the plan so far and if you know me well, this plan could change without notice.
Day one dare: "Resolve to say nothing negative to your spouse at all. If the temptation arises, choose not to say anything. It's better to hold your tongue than to say something you'll regret."
Day two dare: "Do at least one unexpected gesture as an act of kindness."
After reading this to David he says, "Oh this should be real easy for you" in a sarcastic tone. I said, "Hmm, well now I have one up on you buddy." And we laughed.
One thing that we tend to do is let our frustrations out on each other when things happen throughout the day. We tend to use each other as therapists, I guess you could say. However, it's always tough to hear what the other has to say when deep down we know it's the truth.

Day one talks about being patient and how love is built on pillars of patience and kindness. All other characteristics of love are extensions of these two attributes. Patience is the attribute that helps us to be positive in a negative situation. We resolve to slow down the quick response of anger instead of being restless and demanding. When there is a storm whirling around we look within for the internal calm instead of the external storm. Anger never makes anything better, in fact it makes things worse and amplifies other storms within a marriage. Resentment, disappointment, or grief is usually the culprit for anger building up from selfishness, foolishness, or evil motives. Patience always prevails over anger and is the wiser. Patience gives you the ability to hold during tough times rather than bailing out under pressure.
"Few of us do patience well, and none of us do it naturally."

Day two talks about kindness as an action. Patience is how love reacts but kindness is how love acts. Patience avoids problems while kindness creates blessing. In the book there is a paragraph regarding each of these words: Gentleness, Helpfulness, Willingness, and Initiative. Each paragraph talks about the needs for each person much like a see saw affect giving and receiving unto each other but on a balanced scale.

Here are a couple of questions that are presented to the reader:
How would your husband or wife describe you on the kindness meter? How harsh are you? How gentle and helpful? Do you wait to be asked, or do you take the initiative to help?

"It is difficult to demonstrate love when you feel little to no motivation. But love in it's truest sense is not based on feelings. Rather, love determines to show thoughtful actions even when there seems to be no reward. You will never learn to love until you learn to demonstrate kindness."

Tonight I came home to David cooking dinner. He does not like to cook but these past few months he has taken the initiative to try recipes out of a book. This was his act of kindness and mine will be giving him a massage with aromatherapy oils. We are going to watch the move, Fireproof, tonight to see how it relates to the book. Below you can find the trailer for the movie.
Keep us in your prayers and intentions.

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

Day Twenty 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse - The Light of Compassion

2010-01-27T20:30:00Z

Day 20 of the 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse brings us into the light of compassion. I really had to know compassion on day 20 to deal with it! I initially made my notes during the call and wrote the blog however my computer did some funky thing and just like dust flying away in the air, I lost everything. If something like this happened in the past, I would have been really upset and took it out on myself and those around me. You know those times that you just hate the world when your faced with something that is irritating. Through the years I have learned to be more compassionate with others but more importantly with myself. In order to "be" or feel anything you have to look within yourself and then, I mean only then, can you truly "be" or feel this way with others. I'm not going to replay the recorded call and take notes because I feel the divine is working through me to just "be". Be myself through my own inner guidance while reading the book and writing about what I perceive from the book. We all walk in the light of the divine with our own message that may be a little different from another. It's with compassion that we can look through our own eyes with the guidance of God that we can experience what others see or feel.

Debbie Ford tells us in her book, 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse, that we open our hearts to God when we are grounded in love, care, and kindness through the commitment of living a devotional life. When we walk with God's heart we walk with an inner compass, while no longer seeing our own hurts or judgments that determine how we feel. We are influenced by the divine and know deep within that we are here to learn, grow, and evolve. You can relate this to a metal detector which tells us when it's in line with something metal. When we walk alone, without the divine running through us as this conduit, we lack authenticity, honesty, and being real with self. When we walk in the light of the divine we also walk in the light of the collective of all people, all hearts.

Debbie gives an example of how we can only see what is around us, here and now. We cannot see how others live around the world because we cannot be everywhere at one time. We may not understand or practice every religion because we have not grown up around this religion. It is impossible for us to truly see or feel everything because we cannot experience it as a unit. We are a collective of all experiencing different feelings, religions, upbringing, and so on. Can we be a man, woman, infant, teen, or adult all at one time? No, because we are here to learn through each of these experiences through compassion of another. We are here to lift ourselves up and view self or another through divine eyes without the ego. One thing that Debbie Ford points out that really hits the point, at the age of three we don't say, I want to be a wife beater, a killer, a cynical person, or however you perceive yourself right now. We only see and feel things through our own wants, needs, likes, or dislikes that have been presented to us through history and how we were raised. That's it! We are limited in this human form but through the eyes of the divine we become compassionate to another.

"Compassion doesn't ask, "What can the world do for me?" but rather, "How can I serve the world?" quoted from the book, 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse. Do you think the divine is fearful when it views our life? No it is compassionate to each being, each soul, in each situation without judgment. In our humanly form, it's judgment that limits our perception due to protecting the self. When we step back from this perception of "poor little me" or "how can that person do that to me", instead viewing the entirety of the situation through divine eyes we activate a change in our awareness. We then rise up and come to understand compassion instead of taking it personally. God, or whatever higher divine serves you, has a bigger plan which we cannot see because we are limited.

This day reminds me of my lessons through "The Goal Acheiver", a complete system for setting and achieving any goal you choose, with Bob Proctor. Through these lessons you learn about the stick person concept. Bob Proctor opened my mind to the concept of the conscious and sub-conscious mind through the stick person. I will not go into great detail about this program however I wanted to share how each of our experiences throughout life build upon deeper meaning that molds us into who we become. I have found that experiences outside of my being build up the ego for protection, while inner soul experiences build my connection to the divine. The 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse has brought further insight to my inner core of how to look through divine eyes with compassion on every soul and learn different experiences through it all, as a collective. This feels so much more comforting than staying in the singular mind of protective ego.

Cleansing Rituals
Debbie Ford suggests writing down three pivotal events in your lifetime. What happened, when, and who was involved?
Take this event and break down the what happened, when and who through three sets of eyes. Your own, the eyes of others, and divine eyes.
This is when you realize that by looking through the eyes of the event through the eyes of the divine you become compassionate while judgment falls away. You experience liberation within your soul.

My intention: The divine lifts my soul into a higher realm of collective energy. It's through this collective energy that the divine helps me see with compassion.

Love Potion for Day 21
1 cup of water
1 tsp of chia seeds
1/2 cup of orange juice
1/2 banana

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

Day Nineteen 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse - The Light of Purpose

2010-01-26T01:09:00Z

On day 19 of the 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse our divine soul is ready to present our unique talent into the world. You have worked on the past, pondered on the present, now you have the opportunity to discover and deliver your unique contribution to the world. Each of us has a contribution to the world that will make a difference in others life's. Purpose is the next agent of change that we incorporate today by reconnecting to the Divine to bring forth our soul's purpose into the present moment.

Debbie Ford recommends that we not look into the past because we have been influenced by what we've done, what we've been told, and what our present circumstances dictate. Instead, she recommends that we look beyond our years here on earth, that we step into our soul's legacy in the future tense, while reading it in the present. A life can be lived without leaving something behind to contribute to the world. To think that our family or friends memory of us would diminish in a matter of years puts this concept into a different perspective. This really makes you think about the legacy that you leave behind and once you do think about this, who really cares about the past! You have the next moment, day, week, or year to REALLY make a difference in the world, to contribute your purpose that God gifted to you here on earth.

Upon reading this chapter in the book, I could see where someone would get a little overwhelmed. To imagine and think of yourself no longer here on earth could make someone sad. If there's ONE thing we all know, THE BODY WILL DIE! Debbie tells us to imagine our soul is serving God and the only way for the Divine to see or hear anything here on earth is through our legacy.

Our soul is a link to the divine which can only be seen through our eyes.
Our soul desires to fulfill it's purpose here on earth and keeps calling us through the changes in life.
Our soul loves to expand through the changes and share our ventures with others instead of feeling like we are bound by what has happened in the past.

Martin Luther King, Jr. left the legacy of addressing racial bondage in his lifetime while the janitor of a school left the legacy of keeping the bathrooms clean. Each of us have a divine purpose to serve unto this earth. It's when we are happy and know, without a doubt, that we are living our life with Divine purpose.

God has gifted us with such a simple word, PURPOSE, to live by however we have derailed from the train track. Debbie Ford has given us a beautiful scenario of going into the past to touch the piece of our soul that has derailed us from our life's purpose train. It's now at this moment that we realize that we have so much to offer to the world. We have a new day to wake up to tomorrow, just as the sun shines each morning with a new beginning. So instead of feeling like your life is a to-do list, make a conscious effort to go beyond in seeing what your life's legacy leaves behind in this lifetime. Debbie Ford states, "Heed the call of your soul. Your legacy is your soul's purpose and contribution. And your time to deliver is now."

Cleansing Ritual:

Make a list of what you want said about you five, twenty, and fifty years after you die.
Create a vision and plan for the legacy you want to leave behind.
See your vision right now in the present moment.
What is important to you?
What do you want others to say about you?

After reading the chapter and working through the cleansing ritual, I'm reminded about a lesson that was presented to me by a past bartering client, Jeannine Rizzo. Jeannine specializes in business growth, strategy, and performance results through her company, The Inside Edge, based out of Ft Lauderdale, FL. She left me with the profound experience of writing my own eulogy. It really made me think about how my past was truly a blessing and how I had so much more to offer to the world. At the time, I felt my Feng Shui services were not being welcomed in my area. One thing that Jeanine said to me still radiates within, "It's only your perception." After working with her and writing out my own eulogy I realized that I could go on worrying about how others perceive me or I could go out into the world and live my life with passion about what I felt was good within my soul. It's that soul driven purpose through the Divine that places you back on the train track of a purpose driven life. By the way, I read over that eulogy each year and love what I've done!

My intention: Live each day with purpose but with the divine light at the wheel.

Love Potion for Day 19
1 cup of water
1 cup of strawberries
1/2 medium bunch of grapes
1 handful of spinach leaves
1/2 lime - freshly squeezed

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com

Day Eighteen 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse - The Light of Transcendence

2010-01-24T17:40:00Z

Day 18 of the 21 Day Consciousness Cleanse brings us into the Light of Transcendence. On this day we become devoted to increasing our feeling of worthiness by walking through the door into the enormity of what is possible in our life. We separate from the single mindedness of "I" to the expansive power of "we". By picturing yourself as one sitting all alone on the sidelines you are missing the bigger grander version of yourself. When you deny that you are in this bigger grander version you act out in ways that are not intended for your higher divine self. Stepping into the "we" brings you into a collective whole, an energy far greater than the arrogant ego of "I".

Each day your beacon of light grows brighter and stronger within your soul when you come to the realization that "I" did not achieve anything on your own. Your achievements were accomplished by the "we" as a collective, a power greater than "I". You touch other souls along your journey in life with your gifts, contributions, and achievements which transcends into the greater collective as "we". It's when you accept that your sense of worthiness transcends as an act of change to light up the world, as a collective. Give your credit to the higher power, bless those around you, and give thanks to God for working through you as an instrument in the collective beautiful music of life.

Being a humble servant and knowing that you are not acting alone brings the wisdom of light to you when you are at the top of the mountain or have fallen to the bottom. Debbie Ford tells us in her book, "If you wish to know in every cell of your being that you are never alone and to transcend all the noisy internal chatter that exists within your "I," all you have to do is drop inside and ask for grace, guidance, and ease - the three signs of God's will."

One question in today's Cleansing Ritual broadens the mind and helps you step beyond the limiting belief of "I".
"How would you act in the world if you knew you were actually a "we" and that you were not alone?"
I would feel supported knowing that other souls are right there riding the same waves of life. Through the collective, holding each others souls, we increase our vibrational energy to support all that is and all that shall be.

There are other soul inspiring questions to work through within the book. I love how Debbie Ford asks how many minutes a day you can go inside to connect and ask God how to serve as a greater whole, while ending the day with going over the signs that were presented to you such as; grace, guidance, and ease. My suggestion would be to write in a journal each day, which could be your Letters to God. Just as you would write a letter or send an email to another, write about the signs that are presented to you each day for 21 days and see what transcends within your life.

My intention: To breathe in the gifts of the divine and expand these gifts into the consciousness of the collective.

Love Potion for Day 18
1 cup of water
1 handful of parsley leaves
pinch of salt
1/2 lime - freshly squeezed

Kandi Phillips
www.AwakenYourSpace.com
www.LiveYourIntention.com
www.KandiPhillips.com