Author: E.M. Murphy

There are times in our lives that are heavy. We are called to shoulder weight that we may not feel strong enough to carry, yet we rally and we make it happen, every day.

I was called out this week for not regularly posting on this blog or writing more than my monthly submission to a local paper. The question was with all that’s happening in my life right now, why wasn’t I expressing it and sharing it with others through the written word.

It is true that pure emotion usually results in great writing. When one is falling in or out of love. When fury kicks in and rage pours onto the page. When feelings are heightened to a state of euphoria or madness. Yes, I have been there yet these days, I don’t feel much at all. It is merely a constant push with little time to mentally process all that’s happening or reflect upon what I’m feeling because life is heavy – and carrying it well has resulted in a wash of productivity veiled in exhaustion and numbness.

Yet today, running an errand, a cardinal passed me by. That cardinal sat on a branch and looked my way. I couldn’t help but be reminded of the symbolism cardinals have, wondering if a deceased loved one could be paying me a visit. If you’re spiritual like me, you’re nodding right now.

That cardinal grounded me, reminding me to breathe and be present in that moment. It refreshed my spirit, and I drew strength from it’s presence. As I looked through the trees, many now barren of leaves, I could see things I hadn’t before – a reminder of what the approaching winter months can offer us: the opportunity to pause, reflect, and savor the season. A reminder that no matter what life throws our way, we can endure.

No matter how heavy life can get, seek moments of wonder. And if you can’t find them, they may often find you.

I’ll be writing again soon but for now: a daily thought, a point to ponder, and a soulful reflection to close a long day and sleepless night.

Noone prepares us for life, no matter how much training we think we have. One of my favorite lines from a book, “The Secret Life of Bees,” is “we never know who we’ll be when life gets through with us.” That couldn’t be closer to the truth – it is the truth! Continue reading “The Circle of Life.”

Those who know me know that I watch 9/11 documentaries and recaps in early September, the days leading up to that horrific day – only offset by my father’s birthday. My annual commitment is not intended to be morbid or dwell in sadness. My intention is to never forget – to relive those moments, hours, and days followed by a time when we as Americans were united by the shocking and devastating acts of terrorism.

People were not killed – they were murdered. Many of those who survived suffered post-9/11 cancer, chronic illness, and PTSD that most likely continues to impact their days and nights – and may never end. 

Firefighters walked into those buildings to rescue as many as they could, acutely aware that they may never walk back out. Some of them I, and my family, knew personally. I’m sure you remember the people flooding the streets who were fleeing debris flying from the collapsing towers. Those people on each floor, some evacuating while others never even had the chance. Chaos, confusion, fear. Hope, anguish, faith. Shock, questions, prayer.

Will any of us ever forget where we were that day? Will we ever forget the emotions that overcame us, the feelings that arose? Will we ever forget fear, terror, the unknown? 

I won’t. Never – ever, ever, will I forget. 

Yet today I live in a country filled with people who defend criminals, condone terrorists, and invites unvetted illegals into our country. Many support those who hate us, foolishly believing that love, kindness, and a lack of boundaries will stop the most evil, ugly, and hateful people in our world – like terrorists, who want to obliterate us from this earth – and who are dangerously close to achieving their goal. Not necessarily through heinous acts of violence, but through subtle and incessant brainwashing, academic infiltration, and uninformed group thought. I’ve learned that when you ask those people why they defend what they defend, why they pity who they pity, they haven’t a clue. There are no reasons, but lame excuses, even those they struggle to put into words. I’ve met sympathizers who can’t explain why they sympathize, their explanations falling short – and that’s unnerving.

Hate has no place in our country. Whether this be political, racial, ethnic, religious, sex, or any other kind of hate – it has no place. 

Want equality? Eliminate race, sex, gender, ethnicity, etc., from job or any other applications. We want qualified applicants, not those who fulfill a quota. Each of us can succeed in our country – it’s called ‘opportunity.’

Please take care of our veterans and the homeless on the streets within our own country before illegals infiltrating our country. When did nationalism and pride in our country become a black mark against our citizens who defend and aim to protect the USA? 

Allow for any type of faith – all religions and spiritualities, appreciating that there is some truth to each one and we all have the same goal in the end. There is much to learn from each other, and how lovely it would be if we were open to this. There is no one religion – and my God loves all, as does Hecate and Buddha. Open your mind to learn, understand, then choose accordingly. Spirituality can encompass an array of philosophies. Don’t limit yourself.

Lastly, aim to outcast the extremists in political parties – and educate those who are reasonable. Over the past couple of years, I chose to support local political groups with the aim of making a difference, participating with my right leaning folks, only to learn that (1) many blow whichever way the wind blows or (2) many are so fixed that bending wouldn’t even be considered. Please don’t misinterpret me – there are many sincere politicians with integrity as well as the character we would want in our leaders, but too many others lose sight of why they are in office and it becomes about them. I’m considering reclaiming my independence. Just look at – Senator Fetterman who is a person to be respected. He’s not about sides, but truth – a person I can relate to and a reason for craving my impartiality so as not to lose sight of my truths.

And never forget all of those murdered on 9/11 and the years to follow – cancer, chronic illness, PTSD – those who are certainly rolling over in their graves when they see the absurdity of what is happening today.

“How could you have forgotten,” I’m sure they ask. 

So do I – NEVER FORGET. 

I couldn’t help but notice that the tree frogs and insects were loud tonight – very loud. At this stage in my life, I would rather sit and listen to them than turn on a television or even tune in to music.

As a moon enthusiast, and one who takes seriously the lunar cycles, curiosity inspired me to research this. Come to find out it is true that they are louder during a black, or new, moon – tonight features both. Because the darkness keeps them hidden from predators, like bats, owls, and snakes, this time is better for mating. The reduced visibility is a camouflage that allows the males to call more safely – and boy do they have a lot to say. Quite frankly, at this hour, I’m feeling bad for all the guys who obviously haven’t found their mate! Join the club, my friends.

A black moon is the third new moon in the summer season and it is rare, occurring approximately every 33 years. It is a perfect time for stargazing and of course, listening to those boisterous frogs and bugs seeking mates.

What was both fascinating and disturbing tonight, was my dog Vivienne’s behavior. Something spooked her in the kitchen, and she had to be coaxed back with time. She was clingy, had frightful eyes, and was sniffing excessively. She was looking to the sky, and the floor, then back at me with a look filled with anxiety. My heart broke because I wasn’t able to console her. She was quite unsettled until I lay in the bed with her and tucked her closely in. If the black moon brings spirits into the home, I’m not sure we’ve opened the door to positive ones – but one can hope!

How did the black moon impact you? Did you pick up on anything unusual today? Did you set intentions, releasing what no longer serves you and inviting in what will? Or was it just another day?

I encourage you to dive deeper. Reflect upon the day. Bring to mind oddities that you thought nothing of – but now may. When we tap into the universe, it can unveil a myriad of answers.

So tonight may you embrace new beginning’s, and trust life’s process.

Many will read that title and instantly go into defensive mode.

“We must rock the boat to make a difference,” – fair point. “We must protest,” – to each his or her own. “We must cut off from anyone who doesn’t agree with my politics,” – say what?!

As work wrapped up and the skies darkened, I muttered aloud if we were expecting a thunderstorm. No sooner did those words leave my lips when a low rumble of thunder came from above, as if Mother Nature started to move her furniture around.

I checked the forecast and sure enough severe weather alerts were flooding social media channels and news apps. Consciously, I shutdown for the day and prepared for the storm which consisted of one large aromatic candle, opening the deck door ahead of the rain, and plopping down in my favorite chair to unwind with my little dog.

In the words of one of my favorites, Katherine Hepburn: “Life’s hard. After all, it kills you.” How right she is!

Life is hard. It’s fraught with disappointments. People can be cruel, sometimes hurting us without even realizing that they are, while others are fully aware of their intentions. Work can be stressful, no matter what your profession. Family rarely mirrors ‘Leave It To Beaver.’ We can become so busy that we find ourselves going through the motions of life, yet not actually ‘living.’

We think it’s a sign of strength and valor to push through, rather than step back, because what we may need most is to make time to stop – to check-in with ourselves, tap into what’s working and what’s not, then find ways to resolve and course correct to continue on.

I live every day with gratitude. When I awake in the morning I thank God first, then tap I to my spiritual self to kickoff the day. I start with thanks, pray for my loved ones, then ask for strength and discipline in tackling my weaknesses to ensure I can be the best person I can be.

I fall short more often than not. Don’t we all?!

Today, was a wonderful day. I was filled with gratitude for the people who have come into my life. I was amused and intrigued by the diversity, complexity, and beauty of each one – despite many differences. I was humbled and felt immense pride, protection, and love for them all.

Though each day starts with gratitude, some days are certainly more wonderful than others – and today, was one of those days.

Cherish the moments. Love while you can. And make each day you can a wonderful day.

So often we get frustrated with the words or actions of others. We grow impatient, want to take over, or want to fight them – meaning we know who they are and how they operate, yet we continually insist on trying to get them to see, or do it, our way.

What a challenge it is to manage our emotions, battling the urge to criticize or ridicule because, of course, our way is better. We know best.

There is a special feeling that washes over us as we prepare for vacation. Whether it be time off to stay home and tend to overdue projects or simply stowing away on a personal voyage, destination not required; or be it days spent by the sea, exploring another place. It doesn’t have to be a new place. It can be a favorite place that you return to whenever you can – a place that embraces you and promises to ease your mind, fill your heart, refresh your spirit and soothe your soul.