Living from Spirit /Creating Joy

One of my most helpful 'spiritual lessons' was when I learned that everything in my life happens for a reason. I just started to get this concept a little over ten years ago following a heartbreaking relationship. Now, I am grateful for that relationship failure! And I thank the guy I was involved with for not noticing what a radiant, loving being that I am. I wouldn't be where I am now if that relationship had "worked out." Perhaps it "worked out" perfectly!

Well, what about that #*&% place of employment that laid me off? THANK YOU! And that "lose weight quick" scheme that didn't work for me, thanks so much; I've learned to be healthy and fit another way, from the inside out! These are all things that I thought I wanted and needed so badly in my life - you know - the things that I couldn't live without. I am so grateful now, because I have taken a completely different path in life, one that has led me to know and love myself more than I ever would have had those things worked out… Through these apparent failures, I learned to love myself on a deeper level, to trust the Universe, and to follow my spirit. Up until then, I had the tendency to make others responsible for my misery and my happiness!

The ability to manifest joy is one of the most important skills I learned that empowered myself. It allowed me to become a brighter light in the world. Once I learned that I can attract material things and meet my security needs, (water, food, shelter), I was able to focus my attention on contributing to humanity. To assist you in doing the same, throughout this article, I've included uplifting affirmations that will align you with your higher self and a deeper sense of joy.

I came to see that I had attracted the perfect jobs and failing relationships and other situations that would enable me to work on those aspects of myself that needed it. Those were the areas of my life that needed love and positive attention. I see that I learned exactly what I needed to prepare me for the spiritual work that I am doing today.

I remember a time when I felt that life happened to me. Instead of me steering my own boat, I was going along for a ride. As Alan Cohen says in his book, be the star of your own show instead of the extra in someone else's life.

Take your visions, dreams, hopes, and fantasies and make them real. Listen to your inner guidance, awaken to your greater potential, gain clarity, and attract abundance and more fulfilling relationships. Develop a sense of confidence and trust in the Universe.

I learned to focus on the essence of my goals, the spiritual or emotional quality of the object.

I learned every situation is in my life for a reason. Where I am struggling or in pain is an area in which I am still learning to express my deeper self. Thank God, I also learned that I do not have to go through pain and struggle to grow…

Now I know that, along with God, I am the co-creator of my experience: playful, creative, imaginative. I've learned that this, or something better that God has in store for me, can be mine! Like Einstein said, the Universe is a friendly place. God and I are partners and co-creators on the fun journey called Life.

I began 'getting it' at a different level about five years ago when I had a spiritual 'born again' experience. I had had enough of low self-esteem and inconsistent emotions. Another book of Alan Cohen's aptly described my new way of life as 'Joy is my compass.' I began modeling these teachings. You can use these principles in any area of your life, for they are the Universal Principles of life and energy.