Love is the Answer - Kimberly's Blog

Women, Who Are We, Really? (January 10, 2011--1/10/11)

2011-01-11T21:21:00.003-07:00

True empowerment comes for a woman when she realizes she does not need a
man or anyone else to validate her worth, assure her of her beauty or her
desirability or provide for her in any way.

True empowerment for a woman is when she realizes that she is, indeed,
whole, holy, divine; when she can embrace her imperfections and flaws and
see them as part of a perfect package.

Nothing in this world can stop an empowered woman living her passion.

Sometimes, others can give women experiences in:
control
judgment
guilt
shame
pride
greed
lust
gluttony
slothfulness
anger
envy.

Each of these experiences can take the foundation of peace right out from
under an individual, causing one to lose her balance and feel momentary
misery. The duration of the "moment" is in her control, however.

What women choose to do with these experiences can either create a "victim"
out of themselves OR bring forth their empowered, true nature.

In the end, victimhood is merely a temporary stepping stone to a woman's
discovery of WHO SHE REALLY IS.

Without those difficult experiences, what would we learn?

Every great story is written from an involved cast of creative characters and a
plot with many twists and turns that leaves the reader hanging on and turning
each page in eager anticipation.

Each of our lives can be fully embraced and each character acknowledged with
appreciation for their part in our story.

In the end...it's all about life and happily ever afters...... .

It's the getting there that can be exciting and met with acceptance and
gratitude, even in the void of the unknowns.

As we flow through our lives in grace and peace, the "Groundhog
Day" experiences need not be oft repeated as we learn our lessons most
rapidly.

Gratitude and joy speeds the process.

Smiles lighten both our own load and those benefactors of our gift of light.

May we each remember our divinity as we stretch our mental sinews to
maintain our peaceful balance and learn our lessons in self-discovery.
The revelation of WHO WE REALLY ARE is worth any and all the experiences it
took to get to that place.

As we remind each other--through our radiation of JOY--we, in essence, lift
each other's burdens.

After all is said and done, we can see that our initially painful interactions with
each other (most often spurred by the "male" qualities elicited by fear and
control) allowed for opportunities to experience and learn.

The whole set and scenery changes the moment we make the concerted choice
to live continually in our state of joy, remembering that, indeed, IT'S ALL
GOOD! (a.k.a. "it's all God!")

May we remember and LIVE,
Kimberly

Reverse Paranoia (January 9, 2011--1-9-11)

2011-01-09T17:03:00.002-07:00

Oh, the JOY, the delicious JOY of realizing that EVERYTHING IN THE UNIVERSE CONSPIRES TO BLESS ME...when I don't get in its way!!! :-)

I accept!
I say "YES!"
Thank you!
Amen!

How blessed the day when each one is scurrying to make and distribute gifts of self to give to and bless each other! :-)

A global, daily Christmas for EACH ONE!

Oh, what fun! :-)

2 Cor. 1:20 "All of God's promises are 'Yea' and Amen."

New Friends (January 8, 2011--1-8-11)

2011-01-09T17:00:00.004-07:00

Oh, the JOY of making a new friend! One that feels so comfortable that the getting-to-know-each-other feels more like a re-membering.

I was gifted this day with this opportunity. What a precious gift! Thank you!

True Friends (January 7, 2011--1/7/11)

2011-01-07T22:09:00.003-07:00

I continue to feast on the fruit that is delicious beyond description.

Additionally, Krystal and I were able to enjoy a meal today with Beth, a dear, true friend. She has proved herself so often to be a "true" friend and to openly embrace and accept without judgment. Oh, the freedom and joy of being in the company of a true friend! :-)

Merry X-Day! (January 6, 2011--1/6/11)

2011-01-06T20:03:00.003-07:00

Much of today has seemed like a kind of "Christmas" for me. I feel like the Universe is (unawares of most of sleeping humanity), like a loving parent who has expectantly planned and prepared for this time...eager to see my delighted and so-very-grateful unwrappings. Without words, I speechlessly bow my head.

Thank you Santa! :-)

Beauty (January 5, 2011--1/5/11)

2011-01-05T22:09:00.003-07:00

How beautiful people seem to me. What a privilege I feel when I am permitted entrance into someone's heart and they feel free to share who they see themselves to be. Although I can always find the beauty in a person, their beauty multiplies greatly in my eyes when they are able to be honest...with themselves and with me and others. *THIS* is who I am... all the warts, weaknesses, imperfections included. How rare this quality is...that of accepting "Beauty" AND "The Beast" and realizing "It's ALL Good!" God don't make no junk!!! :-) Just 6.6 BILLION different flavors (compared to Baskin and Robbin's 31!)...all serving their own purpose...unique and delicious in their own right and way.

I had the opportunity to meet and visit with a person who seemed much more honest than most. What a joy for me to reflect back to them the tremendous beauty that I saw.

I pondered upon how NONE of us mortals REALLY *KNOW* and completely accept WHO WE ARE...completely...100%. We all are living (to varying degrees) under the delusion of "mistaken identity". All trying to find *Who I AM* in the eyes of another. Using make-up, the "right" clothes, house, car, career, etc. etc. to disguise the "hideous beast" lurking inside. Terrified of being seen *naked*, for who we really are! Most believing that a relationship can provide the missing component that will "make me feel whole".

And yet...how CAN two "things" relate to each other (or even attempt to) IF THEY ARE BOTH *HIDING*??? If I hold out my closed fists and ask you to guess what each contains (with no prior hints) and expect you to also see their relevance to each other...(hammer to nail, paper to pencil, earth to water, etc. etc.) then I am doing what so many lonely individuals do....attempting to find a relationship without even knowing their OWN *TRUE* identity, OR that of the other.

Something to think about.... :-)

Hugs,
Kimberly :-)

"Everything Is Beautiful"

(As recorded by Ray Stevens)
R. STEVENS

("Jesus loves the little children
All the little children of the world
Red and yellow, black and white
They are precious in his sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world")

Everything is beautiful in its own way
Like a starry summer night
Or a snow covered winter's day
And everybody's beautiful in their own way
And under God's heaven
The world's gonna find a way.

There is none so blind as he who will not see
We must not close our minds
We must let our thoughts be free
For every hour that passes by
You know the world gets a little bit older
It's time to realize that beauty lies
In the eyes of the beholder.

And everything is beautiful in its own way
Like a starry summer night
Or a snow covered winter's day
Ah, sing it children
Everybody's beautiful, oh in their own way
Under God's heaven the world's gonna find a way.

We shouldn't care about the length of his hair
Or the color of the skin
Don't worry about what shows from without
But the love that lives within
And we gonna get it all together now
Everything gonna work out fine
Just take a little time to look on the good side my friend
And straighten it out in your mind

And everything is beautiful in its own way
Like a starry summer night
Or a snow covered winter's day, ah sing it children
Everybody's beautiful, oh in their own way
Under God's heaven
The world's gonna find a way.

One more time
Everything is beautiful in its own way
Oh, in its own way
Like a starry summer night, or a snow covered winter's day.

(c) Copyright 1970 by Ahab Music Co.

Quiet Intensity (January 4, 2011--1/4/11)

2011-01-05T17:20:00.002-07:00

Today was another quiet day...until my five "middle" children (ages 10-18) came over for "Date Night". Oh, how I have loved getting to observe the vast rainbow of humanity and the unique propensities of those I have been blessed to witness...my own children up close and first-hand. What an amazing and vast array "God" has created! On top of the singular uniqueness on display, is the intricate intensity of the interplay and exchanges constantly interacting and evolving.

I continue to marvel at the details of my life and how the WHOLE ENTIRE UNIVERSE appears to be conspiring FOR MY BENEFIT! As I have become more and more aware of the details that I have invited into my awareness, it has become quite amusing all the myriad details. Again, I'll share more at some point. :-)

Hugs,
Kimberly :-)

Communication (January 3, 2011--1/3/11)

2011-01-03T20:25:00.002-07:00

Interesting...

The "cleaner" and "stiller" I get physically and mentally...
the clearer and louder the message becomes.

I carried on my deep cleaning today.

Although my *Cricket* internet service provider did not allow me to access the internet until this afternoon, I was able to "down-load" much more today from *Inner* sources. I filled several pages of notes in my *journal*.

I was able to pay off my large credit card debt through a 0% Balance Transfer with another institution today.

Baby Joey, the seven-month-old that I care for needed much re-training today. After four days away from me, he was greatly de-railed...out of routine, falling asleep during feeding, angry when I consistently made attempts to "wake him up" and finish eating, exhausted. Tomorrow, his parents are taking him in for cosmetic "circumcision". Because I was not asked for my perspective, I did not offer it. Oh, how I personally learned lessons in that book through my own experiences.

I have been told, and believe, that my life will NOT be in vain, that my lessons learned WILL benefit others...many others. I proceed in faith...Listening and pondering intently as I walk one foot, one moment, in front of the other.

I have so very much to share...when the time is right and the soil fertile.

All the while, I continue letting go of all "possessions" and figuring it all out.

Hugs,
Kimberly :-)

To BE (January 2, 2011--1/02/11)

2011-01-02T20:52:00.001-07:00

Today and yesterday I spent mostly relaxing and deep cleaning inside. Through this, I received greater clarity and understanding about life. I will share more about this later.

I am amazed...and amazing! :-)

Hugs,
Kimberly

The "Dtoo-Dtee" (January 1, 2011/ 1-1-11)

2011-01-01T18:45:00.003-07:00

This afternoon, I drove my newly 18-year-old son, Tanner, back to his dad's house. Tanner and his brothers and sisters had spent time with Krystal and I over this past week while celebrating our relationships along with Christmas/ New Year's/ and his birthday. What an intense, wonderful time! :-)

As I drove, I saw something that spurred a shared memory. When Tanner was a small toddler he had problems communicating because of a pronounced lisp. One day as I drove, he excitedly pointed to something outside the car and enthusiastically tried to share something. It sounded like he said: "Dtoo Dtee!!!!!" In trying to understand and share in his enthusiasm, I questioned, "What's a 'dtoo-dtee'?" Frustrated, he repeated, "No! 'dtoo-dtee'!" "Duty?" asked one of his older siblings. "NO! dtoo-dtee!" Tyler, Alyssa and Bryanne and I all attempted earnestly to make sense of what Tanner was attempting to convey--with no success. UNTIL...Tanner gestured with his hands at his feet while he said (and this, we DID understand), "You know...you take off your dtoos (shoes), dtie them, and dtrow (throw)them in the dtee(tree)!" Ahhh...NOW we understood! We had (now a few miles back) driven past the huge oak tree growing near the road that (as it must have been winter-time and leaf-less and easy to see its contents) was decorated with myriad pairs of shoes that had been tied in pairs and thrown up (in decoration?) into its branches. My children and I had (previous to this) called this tree the "shoe tree".

As Tanner and I reminisced on this tender memory of mis-communication turning (through shared desire and persistence) into communication, we then shared about communication itself. I poignantly offered my experiences of aching to be able to communicate with my dear friends in Ecuador, and how often it had brought tears to my eyes as our disparate languages did not allow for complete understanding. We talked about the acquisition of verbal language for children and its displacement of real communication via body language and the shared voice and understanding of "soul contact". I explored with him the concept of "reverse speech" and its acquisition in young children and my personal intrigue with this as Krystal had begun (at about 15 months old) to "speak" this...later substituting it with (its reverse) the english language.

I shared with him my belief that verbal language allowed for the proliferation of non-integrous communication, lying and deceit which, interestingly (at least for me) the invention of "reverse-speech" instruments are able to detect (though most of us do not have available, nor are many even aware of this).

I later pondered that the only real understanding *I* have is through *My* experience as "Kimberly". Through my personal endeavoring to REALLY LEARN through my life's experiences the lessons that I bring to *me*, I have attempted to become completely congruent with who *I AM* and live *TRUE* to *Me*.

This first day of the first month of this new year I am desiring to share daily entries of my experiences and my ponderings leading to (I hope) the wisdom that they might afford. I know not if anything I will live and attempt to share through this blog will ever be read by another...much less touch or help another life. But if, indeed, it does, or they do...my own life will be that much more blessed.

Recently watching the movie "Julie and Julia" which chronicled a year in the life of "Julie" as she worked through a cookbook of Julia Child and blogged about her experiences, I was struck with how her experiences did, indeed, end up affecting many others...and bringing to her her joy of sharing (through the written word) her passion (cooking food).

Although anyone who enters my home will attest that I seem to enjoy sharing food and feeding others...my TRUE JOY is blessing others with *spiritual food* and pointing their awareness more directly toward the *One* who can TRULY feed each one of us. For most of us, this *One* lies unheard and seemingly dormant deep within.

As I have become more and more focused on hearing and following this *One* within *Me*, I have heard unspeakable things that have given me tremendous peace and personal direction. What I have experienced goes way beyond the *path* that I had (as a young girl and teenager) thought I wanted to walk. But, OH, the JOY in walking an untrod path and finding my *Own* way.

I awoke this morning to scant lyrics from the tune "No Man Is An Island" going through my mind. As I looked up the full lyrics and pondered on them, I *saw*, again, how, indeed, we are all connected and this world-wide web can allow us each, individually, to share our separate-yet-intertwined experiences with each other, leading to the inevitable joining of hearts and minds into a global family, enriched through our own lives' experiences and the sharing and connecting of those with each other.

To life, love and shared "dtoo-dtee's"!

Hugs and smiles,
Kimberly :-)

"No Man Is An Island"
No man is an island,
No man stands alone,
Each man's joy is joy to me,
Each man's grief is my own.

We need one another,
So I will defend,
Each man as my brother,
Each man as my friend.

I saw the people gather,
I heard the music start,
The song that they were singing,
Is ringing in my heart.

No man is an island,
Way out in the blue,
We all look to the one above,
For our strength to renew.

When I help my brother,
Then I know that I,
Plant the seed of friendship,
That will never die.
©

"Krystal's Kreations"

2010-11-12T18:43:00.001-07:00

Who would have guessed??? :-)

Krystal and I have gone into business. Together, we are making bracelets! :-)

It has been a wild and precipitous ride since arriving back in Arizona from Ecuador (June '09) right when the economy had taken a major plunge and 1000's of qualified, certified teachers were laid off throughout the state. What is a single mom, with no more money, no job, NO outside "assistance" of any kind, nor "family" to lean upon, to do???

I initially found a job assistant teaching at a very small charter school (K-3 grade) of inner-city, mostly hispanic children. Krystal attended Kindergarten there, and I worked closely with her teacher. I also was the "specialist" with its population of "special needs" children, witnessing many small miracles, and seeing confidences soar. In the afternoons, I would help the students enjoy and appreciate music. Although I appreciated working with the poor and relatively "humble" population here in the "States", and made fast friends with the other teachers, I was required to draw heavily upon my available credit line to pay expenses each month, even with our ultra-simple life-style. I attempted to find additional part-time work, endeavoring to establish group music classes ("Music is FUNdamental!") in the afternoons, but nothing ever came to fruition. Curious???!

I had been lead to believe upon hiring and through various conversations throughout the year that as the school expanded and the director added a classroom the next year (now in session), that I would have that (full-time, salaried) position. Although still very meager by most U.S. standards, and certainly by my former standards, it would still pay over three times what I was making and I would be able to meet our monthly expenses as well as climb back out of debt. However...

In the middle of May, after a teacher (surprisingly) commented to me that the director had advised her that I would be heading the school's summer school program, I realized that some communication was necessary and that I would have to initiate it. I had already accepted summer employment with former neighbors and friends and had a waiting clientelle for group tutoring classes for the summer. Long story short, I was informed that she, the director, was hiring someone else, a male, to take the new class this next year, as the children, she felt, needed a male role-model. Additionally, she wanted to use his computer and administrative skills to "groom" him to take over her position as she expanded into additional school sites. She wanted me to continue on in the same position, with the same pay as I had. HOW COULD I??? (Even if I had wanted to.) :-)

Something deep inside me had, for those last several weeks, been whispering: "No man can serve TWO 'Masters." Finally, I understood that I had been putting "Ms. Margaret" up...as my "master". No matter how much loving service I was rendering, I was still relying upon another (Her) to provide for our financial needs. Ah-ha!

There are so many details of this last chapter of my life story which are pretty amazing, but will need to be shared at a different time and venue. But...I suddenly found myself back in the job searching market, with only a fragment of my credit line left. What to do now???

KNOWING that I would only find the "highest path" if I remained in peace and faithfully followed any and all impressions and opportunities that availed themselves...I have been searching continually for "the answer" to this quandry.

Ohhh, that the Worldwide United Foundation were already in place...to benefit EACH of US...AND Krystal and I!

Staring face-to-face with the ever-present possibility that Krystal and I would be out on the streets soon, I chose to, instead, keep my vision bright and strong. At various moments, this was a Herculean task. My mind was open to anything (and, I mean, Anything!), though how to juggle all the variables (which I will leave to the reader's mind--many I am not able to disclose at this time), was quite a wonder.

At the request of a new friend, I accepted to care for her toddler in my home. This brought in a little money. I also was able to benefit from food stamps. Although I was strung along for many weeks past their appointed time-frame for an answer, I was finally told that I was denied any unemployment insurance because, in their opinion, I had "quit" my job and that ammeliorated my opportunity for assistance from the government.

It almost appeared to me to be a "comical" situation. How long will Kimberly be able to remain in peace, trying "door" after "door", smiling through all this? How many "dead ends" and cement walls will she come to in her pursuit to find something (anything!) to provide for herself and her small daughter???

I KNEW, somehow, that the answer WOULD come! Again, leaving out many, many amazing details....

One day as I was searching on-line, I happened upon a work-from-home situation, making handcrafts for a company. Hmmm. As I was thinking through this possibility and researching the company and the testimonials from their employees, Krystal was coming in every few minutes to have me tie off a bracelet that she was making. Half-interested in her creations, time and again one of us would drop the strand and it would fall to the carpet, requiring her to start over...again! Finally...I gave her my full attention and had my "Ah-ha" moment!

Krystal and I could enter into business ourselves! I would have NO ONE over me that I would be looking to for a pay check, direction, communication, etc. Krystal obviously was very tenacious and talented in what she had been doing for the last couple hours. Her bracelets (using the simple child's kit that her sister Bryanne and friend Colton had bought her for her birthday) were extraordinarily well-designed for a 6-year-old. They were balanced, symmetrical, interesting and beautiful. What could she do if I fully "came on board"? I have always loved creating things of beauty!

Even more importantly, my heart had yearned to find a solution which benefitted not only us...but the entire world! I had ached to create some way to live my passion, help bring forth Krystal's hidden propensities and interests, and help further the cause of the Worldwide United Foundation...thereby uniting in heart and mind the global brotherhood of man as we cared for each other...ALL of us on the planet.

Thus, "Krystal's Kreations" was born.

In my mind, "Krystal's Kreations" goes farrr beyond a mother-and-young-child business venture. In my mind, this is the beginning of something GLOBAL. I see "Krystal's Kreations" as being one of the first steps in each individual on the planet finding something that THEY can do or create to bring them joy AND help bless the rest of humanity. My vision is vast. My desires to help bring the PEACE ON EARTH for EACH of US is strong and not-to-be-extinguished! Although our simple needs will be taken care of, I believe, I see our ability to contribute to this amazing foundation growing and growing.

Since the "Gilbert Farmer's Market" opened up, nearly 4 weeks ago (nearly right-around-the-corner from us!), we have been able to find a way to "market" the hundreds of bracelets that we have made. Krystal initially contributed all of her birthday money and I have, literally, used our last cents to find and purchase the beads and other needed materials. Thankfully, a few others have even donated additional beads. I, truly, am walking this path with the faith and determination that our rent will be able to be paid...and much, much more!

Initially, one dollar of each bracelet sell is going to the Worldwide United Foundation. As our basic needs are met and this vision is accepted by others and expands, I believe that we will be able to contribute much more.

I may write in the future more about the unforeseen and interesting path that led us here, but suffice it to say at this point that WE ARE HAVING FUNNNNN! :-)

Although, officially observed as "one must work for his bread!" and "the curse of Adam", that one must "labor all the days of his life"...by "the sweat of his brow"....

I truly believe that the "Curse" can be overcome and undone. Although celebrated yearly as "Labor Day" and lived out throughout the world (EACH DAY!) by many groveling "poor" and humble, some for every moment of their miserable life...

I believe with all of my heart that THERE *IS* Another Way! :-)

In a nut-shell: I believe that it is *God's* Work and Glory to "bring about the immortality and eternal life of mankind". I believe that it is *MY* Work and *MY* Glory to Live Passionately and Kindly (in all things obeying the "Golden Rule") as I *Play* and *Have Fun* finding *MY* opportunities to be the "Creator" that *I AM* and that contribute to the beauty and harmony of the world. :-)

I would like to invite others to join with us. What is it that you enjoy doing? What brings *YOU* JOY as you passionately undertake it? One might have to, possibly, expand one's vision here. I know *I* did! (Creating beautiful, unique bracelets to sell to others when I don't even wear jewelry myself certainly was quite a new thought for me!) :-) But, you, too, can find and have an open mind and heart...! :-)

Let's together, collectively, bring forth the joy and peace on earth...in each heart and EVERY home.

Simply, it requires,

First: signing the petition found at www.worldwideunited.org

and then: doing what you love that benefits others (even another's "vanity" :-) ).

We need no longer look to nor lean upon any other "Master" but that "Creative" still voice inside our own heart.

What do you think? Better yet, How do you *FEEEEEEL*?

If *I* can do it, from my precarious situation...YOU CAN, TOO!

With tremendous respect for each one of us...

Let's DO IT!

Hugs,
Kimberly :-)

Bumper Cars

2010-08-29T20:25:00.002-07:00

Marti, a dear friend, took both Krystal and I a few days ago to “Amazing Jakes” to celebrate Krystal’s birthday. After eating, Krystal was free to explore many of the available attractions: a carousel, train, bumper cars, mini roller coaster, tea-cups, etc. As we each buckled in to a bumper car and she was instructed on how to “drive” hers … I pondered on the allegorical similarities of “bumper cars”… to life.

When in a bumper car, it is a given that we will be jolted and rammed –even if we do nothing our self to initiate it. Another driver will either-- through seeking a “thrill” of getting a reaction from us or simply because of logistics and wanting to get to “somewhere else” and we happen to be in the space between -- run right into our vehicle, potentially giving us quite a shaking.

I thought of how in life there appears to be so many obstacles. Most of those involve our relationships with another person. Even when we are seeking to live a serene and uncomplicated life, it may seem that we cannot escape the bumps and bruises provided by our interactions with others.

However, I have only witnessed people shrieking with pleasure, great smiles and laughter seeping from their faces while getting jolted during a bumper car experience. What has happened to cause so many in this “real” world to walk around with frowns and feelings, thoughts and actions of “victimhood”? Could it be, possibly, our expectations we have for the experience…and each other (the drivers of the “other vehicles”)? Could those expectations have arisen from the perspectives that we have adopted that have been “supposed to” serve us here in life…but perhaps are doing the opposite of bringing us lasting happiness?

I believe so.

I love to watch people. I guess you might call me a perennial “observer” of human nature. How do those two friends who just “bumped into” each other at the mall respond to each other? How do the drivers of those two cars who just “bumped into” each other react? What if one of them had maintained his peace, would that have affected the intensity of the other’s reaction? What about the lovers? When she gets excited over a new-found item, how does he respond? How does his response affect her, as displayed by her body language, words and voice? How do either of their responses change over time and repeated experiences together?

I love to watch movies for the same reason. Hmmm…. There are currently about seven billion different perspectives, coming from seven billion different people sharing this planet. Each one different. How do they each respond when in a certain experience? Without consciously being able to observe each one, at least the movies are allowing me the opportunity to see from another’s’ viewpoint and consider his or her reality for that brief window of time.

Another thing I enjoy is to stand in shallow moving water such as the ocean or a wave pool. Am I able to maintain my balance and stand strong as the water moves around me? What if I move out a little deeper? What if the wave has considerable strength and the current is powerful?

Can I stand (“be still!”) amidst chaos, bumps and confusion all around me—and experience a blessed life of JOY? Am I able to bring this same inner stillness as I move gracefully and while interacting with others in my day-to-day life? I happen to believe that each of my earthly neighbors (seven billion [roughly] in all) is helping me to remember that ability.

Though there are differences, we share so many similarities…in addition to this majestic planet we all call “home”. Although I’ve had my share of bumps and bruises initiated by others, I have to say that I have (overall) enjoyed the experience and am grateful for the lessons learned. In truth, I am now, generally, at the point of keeping my smile and enjoying the interactions I am both experiencing personally and observing of those around me.

What a fun game we are playing! Who wants to go another round? :-)

"I CAME. I SAW. I CONQUERED."

2010-08-21T07:46:00.005-07:00

From time to time, I will share my dreams…at least those which I realize have a message of significance for “me”…and possibly for others. This morning I had one of those.

In my dream, I was “babysitting” and my attention was drawn more and more to one of those in my care who was giving me the most trouble. Lying down on the floor, a perennial (mocking?) smile on his face was a young man, almost the same age as I was. He was (at least he was appearing to me to be) mocking, humorously teasing and taunting me...all without really saying anything, just that amused, belligerent-seeming smile on his face. I became exasperated when he would not listen to “reason” and respect my “authority over him” and stop and desist, just settle down and go to sleep! In frustration, I slapped him on the face, commanding him to stop. This did not seem to faze him in the least and I, more emphatically, ordered him to respect me, be quiet, and just settle down…NOW!

Suzanne (my “step-mom” in this life) and my dad made their presence known and I realized that I had been babysitting for them. I then became more and more drawn to and aware of the identity of this young man. As I did, he got up and came closer, sitting down on the sofa next to me. As I opened up to WHO HE WAS (!) I became more and more intensely, passionately, profoundly aware of the longing that I had for him …and aware of HIS equal and immense, even “eternal” feelings for me. He put his powerful, amazingly sensuous arms around me, holding me close to his heart, his cheek caressing mine. OHHHHH, how we wanted to get away (alone!) together! Oh, how I ached inside to consummate our love. OHHHHHH…!!!

My attention then became drawn to the surroundings of the house I was in (my “step-mother”). It was nice, with hard-wood floors and I could tell it had been decorated the best that the owners had been able. Yet, as I looked, I realized that it wasn’t very bright. The carpet runner down the hall was dingy, not exactly the right size, and with a so-so pattern to it. It needed fresher paint and a brighter color scheme, I thought. I accepted that this house was sufficient for her taste and I gazed upon it without judgment but with discernment of how I would choose to make the changes when I was able to. Also, although I didn’t see anything of significance wrong structurally, there was clutter. Containers of hair clips and other things were loosely littering the floor. I attempted to help her by picking them up, but some of them would slip back out of my hands and from their containers, back down to the floor at each attempt.

~~~~~

Interpretation: This young man that I was attempting to subjugate and control was my “Eternal Mother”—my exalted, perfected, glorious BODY! It could not be controlled, though it was somewhat appeasing me for a time by lying down on the floor. It had its complete knowing, while I was the ignorant one who tried to assert my “mastership” over it…thus its smile that appeared to me to be mocking. As I became aware that I was serving “fallen flesh”…my “step-mother” (mother is representative of matter, the "dust of the earth" from which all of our “fallen” bodies are composed) I realized the true identity of my Beloved, my perfected and eternal body…my “Eternal Mother”.

Oh, how powerful and incessant the longing for our “marriage”! Oh how wonderful when “I” finally and completely surrender and submit and allow a total merging and reunification with “Her”!

Consideration: HOW can I finally and completely quit “baby-sitting” and leave the house I am in so that I am free to consummate my love and become “ONE” with my exalted flesh?

My Current Understanding of the Realization: Now that I have felt and realized the amazing intensity of EACH of our desires for unification...I can continue with peace as my compass, KNOWING that I AM ON MY WAY and that...IT IS TO BE! With the JOYful feelings that this understanding fills me and with this continual compass of peace leading me...I can relax to the beauty and wonder of the gift that I am making available for myself. :-)

Two thousand years ago, it is reported, Julius Caesar stated: “I Came. I Saw. I Conquered.” The words were rich with brevity, power and clarity.

Perhaps with a vastly different idea behind them, these words can be a creed for me, personally. I Came (into this body and this life with the personality named and known as “Kimberly”). I Saw (with faulty perception to various degrees for the majority of “my” existence as “Kimberly” while I was laboring under the assumed responsibility of caring for the “worldly matters”…then with greater and greater clarity as I opened up to real truth). I Conquered (knowing real truth and more and more who I Am and who I have been trying to subordinate to my ignorant desires for supremacy, I finally relax and embrace my Real Nature and Humanity and allow the True Master to merge with “Kimberly” and we then become “One” and fully united together).

Expect a Miracle!

2010-08-18T14:47:00.004-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated…although not exactly as “planned”.

Krystal’s 6^th birthday is this Friday (August 20^th). Last year we had had a simple cake and present with her older siblings when they came over for “Date Night”. She’s never really had a “typical” American Child’s party and I had not yet put much thought into this year’s special day.

Krystal had overcome a fear (which I may write more about in the future) of swimming while at Desert Oasis Water Park a couple weeks ago, by going down—dozens of times!—the big crazy slide. She had wanted to show her big brothers and sisters what she could now do while also enjoying it with them. We thought this would make a great “party” / “Date Night” for her and the others…until just a few days before when I did some investigating and found out that (since school had just begun) the water park was now closed during the week. Therefore, “Date Night” there (party or not) was out of the question.

I then thought we might have to have a simple party at the park close to our little condo. However, a few days ago, I decided (and Krystal eagerly agreed) to open up our Tuesday Date Night to include a few of her friends also. So, nearly last moment, I made some calls inviting a few close families and neighborhood friends for pizza and water balloons and games—at the park.

Several times in recent months Krystal has requested a helium balloon. I have told her that “on your birthday you could maybe get one”. Well, Monday, as I was checking out at the Dollar Store nearby (one of our favorites places to shop), she went with an employee to choose her favorite one. I knew it would be *pink* as that seems to be her constant “color of choice”. It was. As we were walking out to the car I looked at it closer: “Baby Shower” it said. I chuckled and explained (to her request) what it meant. Hmmm…technically she is my “baby” and…we are going to play water games…perhaps she’ll have a water balloon pop on her head! :-)

Half an hour before the party was to begin, we went again to the same dollar store for a couple table cloths for the picnic tables and another employee surprised us both by responding to her proud announcement of having a birthday party by pulling out his wallet and handing her a one dollar bill…AND the promise of a doll the next time we come in! We then went to “Little Caesar’s Pizza” to get 6 pizzas to (hopefully) be sufficient for all that might be coming.

The sky was beautiful. The weather report had said it’d be 106* for the high and partly cloudy…a beautiful day (at least for this desert in August). However, off in the distance were some white billowy clouds.

We set up at the park, my older children (most of them at least) arrived, along with some neighbors, and we began to eat the simple fare. It was beautiful, balmy weather, though the clouds were now covering the sky. A breeze came up…then a stronger one. Hmmm… We decided to brace the paper plates and other things from the wind…and quickly begin the games.

We did a relay race, carrying water (on sponges) from plastic buckets to two distant totes (taken from my closet—they are part of my simple “drawers”). Then we did a water balloon toss. (Tanner and I won—at least WE think we did!) As it was really starting to blow by now, we began a “War” with the couple hundred water balloons. I got SOAKED…perhaps a few others did, too. :-) FUN, but we realized…we had to get outta there… and quick! Alyssa and Danny (and their dog, Miley), the Sonntags, Beth and Jo came right as the storm was beginning to show its fury. We dispensed with candles and quickly cut the adorable *pink* kitty cake that Chelsea had made for Krystal.

Grabbing the flying plates, pizza boxes, and all the other paraphernalia that we had so well organized and (loosely) planned for this event…we scrambled for cover (amidst the parting of some of the guests) into our cars…headed to our tiny (just for two) condo. We jammed all the “stuff” and about 15 people into our little front room. I hastily changed into dry clothes and…we did a total “revamping”. We visited, Krystal opened some fun gifts, and we played “Chubby Bunny” (with large marshmallows). Two further hilarious games were the “Bag Game” and “Going on a Trip”. It was a GREAT…if unforeseen…way to shift gears and PARTY!

The house was a total wreck, but when everyone had gone, I began straightening up and helping Krystal prepare for bed. We attempted to gift the last piece of pizza to our kind neighbor who had allowed us to use his water spigot to fill water balloons. He declined, but then reached into his pocket and gave Krystal a TEN dollar bill! With the FIVE dollar bill she had received from Miss Jo in a card, the ONE dollar she had received from the store employee, that made $16.00 that she had received. This was by far the most money she had ever held in her hands. Prior to this, $2.00 in loose change had made her feel quite rich! (Yes, she has learned through experience that those particular pieces of paper and metal seem to be important in this world.)

The storm had long-since gone to sleep (indeed, it was only playing with us for about that one hour!) and we were preparing to go to our beds as well when suddenly…there was a knock at the door…it was Bryanne and Colton (who I had not seen since before he left for his mission and we had gone to Ecuador—2 years before). YEA! Okay, we’ll continue the party! :-)

Going to bed late, I woke up about 1:30 with pizza in the bowels…begging to be cleaned out. I quickly wrote down and did a search on the lyrics that were going through my mind. It turns out they were from a song by Nat King Cole entitled “Orange Colored Sky”:

I was walking along, minding my business,
When out of an orange-colored sky,
Flash! Bam! Alakazam!
Wonderful you came by.

I was humming a tune, drinking in sunshine,
When out of that orange-colored view
Flash! Bam! Alakazam!
I got a look at you.

One look and I yelled "Timber"
"Watch out for flying glass"
Cause the ceiling fell in and the bottom fell out,
I went into a spin and I started to shout,
"I've been hit, This is it, This is it!"

As often happens, I have never really listened to this song (and particularly its message) before having it appear in my subconscious experience. Interesting…! :-)

Going to my computer, I then found a totally-unexpected email from a friend, Ben (whom I may introduce at a later date) who has NEVER written me in the evening—much less the middle of the night! The final thought he shared was: “Expect a Miracle!”

This morning, I pondered on a most interesting experience I had before waking this morning... as we finished straightening our place, cleaning the floor and carpets and taking a large load of garbage to the shared trash bin. Hearing voices, we saw a lady and man in the little fenced-off area…he was inside the bin. Krystal immediately asked: “What are you doing in the garbage?” The woman proudly answered that they had just found a $50.00 bill, while just searching for some cans! They were obviously thrilled, so I congratulated them and wished them both a great rest-of-the-day as well. :-)

While showering this morning (as is so often the case), I received an “ah-ha”. I would (today!) continue (after nearly a year and a half sabbatical)… my blog. I would entitle this one “Expect a Miracle!” I believe that I will continue (daily? periodically?) to allow this blog to chronicle my life of “living in a sense of WONDER” where “Every day is Christmas” and where you never, ever know just what might fall out of the sky and "hit" you next!

So, here’s to “Baby Showers” during birthday celebrations; heightened celebrations during “natural disasters”; finding gifts in the strangest places; and new beginnings.

I’m so glad I’ve learned to flow with life and to…expect miracles!

P.S. Now, I wonder where a replacement for those two closet totes (that we used for the sponge game) will show up! :-) They never made it home amidst all the excitement!

HAPPY Mother’s Day ! ~ ! FELIZ Dia de la Madre ! ~ EVERY DAY!

2009-05-11T13:53:00.003-07:00

A friend commented recently, “Really, Kimberly, sometimes I wonder what the heck you’ve been smoking!” Of course I realized that he was joking. Yet I also knew that under the humor must be an element of his true feelings. (Incidentally, I have never in my life “smoked” ANY thing. Never even had a desire to….though I have picked up cigarette butts several times to place them in trash cans.) :-)

I have realized often in my life that my words and actions are not understood by most others. From their perspective my mental processes (or apparent lack thereof) may even appear quite unstable. Even those who may have more understanding of me and my heart have expressed deep amazement. How in the world could someone who has been through even a Few of the many apparently disastrous experiences that I have…live not just in tremendous PEACE and non-judgment, but…be HAPPY???!*

A week ago I received an email from a man with whom I had visited a few months ago about pursuing a VISA. He shared information about a woman coming to Ecuador who really wanted to meet me. I called her and she ended up flying in that night and spending the next few days with me. I learned much through our association—mostly through observance of myself –and her. She is very involved in natural healing modalities and utilizes certain technologies in her attempts to help the body heal. One of our first experiences after her arrival was when I was getting her something to drink (concocting my raw cacao [chocolate] drink—ummm, yummy!). I had just filled the small glass pitcher with water when she realized what I had done. Gasping, she exclaimed: “You just use TAP WATER?!!!” Grabbing her pendulum, she proceeded to test the purity of the water. In awe, she exclaimed, “This is phenomenal! I’ve never seen water that has tested so high!”

Smiling, I shared with her that, even without consciously attempting to, my “energy” changes everything around me. I also shared with her that for many years prior to coming to Ecuador, I had been very aware of and made great attempts to purify and at times even distill the water I drink and use, always thinking that I needed some kind of machine or other apparatus to help me do this. When I felt to move to Ecuador, I sold or gave away my water machines (along with pretty much everything else I “owned”), realizing that, somehow, they would not be needed.

Still stunned, this woman went to the sink tap and measured the water there…this time with completely different results. I smiled, thrilled, yet not surprised, to see one further verification of the effect of my JOY on the world around me.

A couple days later, she tested my health utilizing her expensive instrumentation. Again marveling, she shared that she had never, in all of her 35 years of experience, tested anyone with as clean and healthy a body as I possessed. This was far from the first time in the last few years that I have been told this by a health-care professional. (Now, for the reader who does not know me well, I will share that the body I inherited at birth came with some serious weaknesses that have caused various amounts of debilitation and necessary daily attention. But, because of my seeking and applying what I have felt to, I have found how to manage…while utilizing it to its current and relatively high mortal capacity.*)

So, what is my “secret”? I guess if you’re still reading up to this point you may have some interest, so here’s the secret…. Although I do not “smoke”, I live my life…as a Drunk! :-) Yes, you read correctly. As the apostles on the “Day of Pentecost”, I live my life…drunk with “new wine”! Do I mean to suggest that I really drink alcoholic beverages??? No, though I have tried them a few times in the last couple years. But…I DON’T NEED THEM to make me feel any better! Wine holds NO appeal to me. (Indeed, I don’t even enjoy the taste!) And, though some may really not understand, and it may appear that I am “crazy” and “speaking in tongues” to them, I am not. I’m speaking the language of JOY. I’m just REALLY, TRULY, POWER-FULLY…HAPPY! :-)

Because of my life’s profound learning experiences, I have found how to be and feel Truly HAPPY—in Any situation. Because of the depth of my understanding and learnings and the incredible “miracles” that I have witnessed with myself and others and all those who have been affected as they have also learned and utilized these same principles, I am writing about this and the incredible ramifications in my book: “The JOY of Harmony”. However, I do feel to share just a bit today in this venue because of my experiences of last week and because of yesterday being “HAPPY Mother’s Day” (or, “FELIZ Dia de la Madre”).

As I teach English classes to the local young children here in Ecuador, I am most importantly sharing with them the principles I have learned (actually, remembered) in living as a POWER-ful, PEACE-ful, HAPPY (full) PERSON. When a child/person learns in this kind of environment and with these principles, the learning is rapidly expedited and so incredibly meaningful…and fun!

One of the things I utilize periodically is my “laughing bag”. Though just a plain red cotton bag, it is powerful! I first demonstrate by putting my head up to and a little in to its open end and take a deep breath. (I do this all a little melodramatically!) :-) When I bring my head out, I am “uncontrollably” laughing. Because laughter and humor is contagious and is our most profound human quality, the children…LOVE THIS …and begin laughing themselves! The bag then goes around and around the circle while everyone takes turns.

Any previous, non-happy/peaceful thought is quickly forgotten and the climate is ripe for enjoyable learning and sharing. This is one simple technique that helps train children to CHOOSE their emotion and to CHANGE their state of mind to a higher frequency…at will. This helps a child “exercise” their emotional “muscles” and gain True Power in their lives.

Although I realize and utilize the power of real food (as intended by nature), I have also learned and put into continual practice the power of JOY. “Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.” Truly, our words, thoughts and feelings (that which we “generate” within and then “radiate” out to others) …are powerful and can change the state of our health and life…while also affecting matter (including the water previously mentioned) in and around us.

It’s interesting to me the simpleness of the way to a truly happy life. Though there are many in the past and present who have and are secluding themselves into verdant, pure locations (“temples”, “sanctuaries”, pristine valleys with like-minded people) to heal and find “bliss”, “nirvana”, regeneration of health, etc. I KNOW that it is personally possible to live and interact even in a polluted environment and even while consuming “food” and water which would appear as “poison”… AND NOT HAVE IT AFFECT our mental OR physical state. (I live across the street from bus terminals and within feet of power lines in busy, downtown [highly polluted] Quito. The pollution I sweep and dust from my apartment each week is phenomenal! However, it holds no power over ME—because I do not allow it to! I transmute it.)

So, in a sense, I AM “drunk”. In fact, it could be said that I am “high” on life!

Certainly, as I find the way to make the changes that I am desiring to bring forth, particularly “Harmony House”, I will be able to move to a more pure and life-promoting location and situation. However, until that time, I am “soaring” and utilizing my mental and emotional processes to make the most of my situation…even when it may not appear “perfect”.

Throughout the history of this planet, one person or group of individuals has usually sought “power” over another… or even over many others. However, I believe that REAL “power” cannot be taken through force. Real “power” is developed and found from within. It is a gift or a characteristic that we give to ourselves. The key is having power over our THOUGHTS, our ACTIONS and our own EMOTIONS—knowing that we can ALWAYS CHOOSE our response and how we will act OR RE-act in any situation.

Indeed, “Peace on Earth” begins with peace of mind. INNER Harmony. Once the world learns this they won't get fooled again into thinking that anything or anyone OUTside of their own heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), and physical body (actions) have anything to do with “loving one’s neighbor as themselves” and taking charge of their lives. (Real Power. Real Peace.) “Blessed are the peacemakers." Yes, the “blessings” are given NOW… and continue into the future.

THIS, NO ONE can TAKE from us!

Although I have sooo much more to share on this subject, I will pause for now along with the invitation to stay tuned and, if interested, watch for my upcoming book that goes into far more detail with much more “meat”, even step-by-step “how-to” instructions of how to REALLY do this. Also, I will explore how to “train up” children in living, not as “victims” thinking they need an outside power source (candy, things, attention, etc. etc.), but as powerful, happy, peace-filled individuals…no matter their life’s situation. These principles are NOT games of pretend or “burying” negative feelings. They work. They have changed many lives and helped many children have strong foundations.

I have also recently finished writing a book (for children…and adults) entitled “I AM WHO I AM”. A very gifted artist friend is possibly going to be illustrating it. If anyone reading this has ideas regarding its publishing (or the publishing of my other books as they are finished) and would like to share them, please do!

Until next time…KEEP SMILING! :-)

Hugs to all,
Kimberly

*More will be shared about my life and, particularly my valuable experiences which, though extremely difficult at times, have helped me to learn these principles in the forthcoming book “The JOY of Harmony” and in my autobiography “Re-claiming My Heart”. :-)

The Day of the Woman = The Day of the Child = The Day of Hope for All the World!

2009-03-10T13:52:00.010-07:00

(Warning: this blog entry could be a short “book” in itself. :-) To cut to the chase: Harmony House is being initiated among the truly poor and humble—here in Ecuador!!! [There, that didn’t take too much of your time, did it? :-)] However, if you want to see the photos and hear how this amazing sequence of events has been and IS Currently unfolding, keep reading for… “the rest of the story”. :-) )

You may have noticed that I have not posted a blog update for quite some time. Why? A couple months ago I received a distinct impression that I had to truly “Know” my Self—completely—before I could ever truly help any other properly. So with that, I figuratively curled up into my “cocoon” and, perhaps like the caterpillar, allowed my “growth” to come, unimpeded, from within Me. I stopped focusing on trying to help others through writing my books and attempted to live only and completely true to my own inner compass of “JOY”.

I did begin teaching English classes in February at the nearby pre-school where Krystal attends. That has brought in about $100. :-) per month. But more than the money, teaching the children English (masquerading as “English”, but actually lessons in “happiness”) has given me an easy, Joy-filled outlet where many lives have been touched—including mine. Other than that I have just gone about my simple day-to-day tasks, spending much time in pondering, “listening”, and allowing what is within me to present itself.

Also, through Facebook especially, I have been very gratified to reconnect with people from my “long ago”. Some from verrrrrry long ago! :-) It has been a true Joy! Somehow, the simple connecting with others has, for me, gone hand-in-hand with being “still” and finding Me. Ooooh, I have such a love for people!

As simple as all that has been, I know that many lives have been touched by the random or daily interchanges Krystal and I have had here in Ecuador—and possibly beyond. I know that people’s lives have been brightened by my smiles.

I have not allowed myself to focus on my limited money supply dwindling. Instead, I maintained my peace and reached out to connecting with others, knowing that at some point, I would “know”…and be able to proceed.

Well, my experience has been amazing. I have been “finding” myself in ways that I never could have in the United States. In the process, my understandings have deepened and increased far beyond what I had thought I had understood before.

I have known that if I was truly living true to my Self that my life would flow and be relatively simple for me; that the “work” I would feel to engage in would bring me a great amount of satisfaction. I have known that I would, in a sense, “magnetize” to me those things and people who were most ready to be a part of my life. A friend sent me a link to a video on “Peace Pilgrim”. I watched it—twice—read her writings and was greatly moved by her faith and the power of her determined desire to DO something that would Really bless the lives of others—even if it was simple. She acted on what she Could do. She has affected many people. Including me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ySs2rLcPhU

A couple weeks ago, Krystal and I were out walking around the neighborhood and stopped at the little store (“tienda”) near our house where they sell natural ice cream (“helado”). We began talking with the couple who own and run the store. After a while, the conversation turned to health, they peppered me with questions, and then the topic turned to Harmony House and my passionate desire to help bless the lives of the children of the world—beginning here in Ecuador, if possible.

The more we talked, the more emotional the man became until he shared some experiences he had had and then shared that “siempre, siempre, siempre” (always, always, always) he would help me and wanted to be a part of Harmony House. He then shared that he was an attorney and would see that I get my residency here in Ecuador. Wow! Again, just living my peace, “life” brought them to us—for the possible “price” of occasional yummy ice cream cones. :-)

The day before that, my dear friend, Luis (the owner of the preschool) arrived home from his construction project in Puerto Quito. (He is an engineer by trade.) He excitedly asked me if I would like to live in Puerto Quito. It turns out that he had gotten into a conversation with the English teacher at the little school there where I had extemporaneously taught a couple months ago when we had gone up with him. The wife of the English teacher is in the government of the province (“state”) and she was more than excited about what she heard about Harmony House and proposed that I personally come speak with her about beginning the project there.

Well, Krystal and I did go up to Puerto Quito again—this past weekend. THAT IS WHAT I’M LEADING UP TO…! :-) But, first, I’d like to share what happened the night before.

Friday night, Krystal and I went out with a new friend, Fernando. He took us up to the “Panecilla” (Spanish for “little bread roll”) which is the name of the hill upon which Ecuador's “National Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary“ stands. Before the Spanish Conquistadors gave it this funny name, Panecillo – “little bread roll” – the hill was called Yavirac and it is said that the Incans had built a temple there to worship their god, the Sun. The building of the Panecilla began in 1976 and took about 30 years to complete. The hill upon which it sits is in the very center of town where the Incan’s for many years had a beehive-shaped oven for making their healing drinks. (The oven still stands as a monument.)

Made from 7,000 sheets of aluminum, “the Virgin” stands 41 meters tall and can be seen from anywhere in Quito. Locals are proud of their Virgin as it's the only one in the world that has wings and reminds one of an angel. What is really unique is that the Virgin is in a dancing position in contrast to the usual static Madonnas. With her feet poised on top of Ecuador, she stands on top of a huge, aluminum globe of the world. With her right arm held in a square, her left arm crosses her body and holds onto a chain that is connected to a snake-like beast at her feet that she has subdued. She also has wings and a halo of 12 stars surrounding her head. At night, and especially during “La Navidad”, the Panecilla is lit up and becomes a veritable “lighthouse” to the city. I believe there is great significance to the symbolism here but will not elaborate upon it now.

Also of interest, at least to me, Ecuador was the first South American country to win their independence, with the voice of liberty being sounded nation-wide on my birthday (August 10th).

My oldest son, Tyler, got engaged this very weekend to a most beautiful girl. They plan to get married in June. Although, of course, it would be wonderful to personally be with them in this exciting time…I don’t believe I will. As much as I love them, support their choices in life, and am thrilled for their happiness, there are so many young ones right here near me that are without any love and support…or even the barest of necessities. I know that Tyler and Melani will find understanding.

Bryanne, my 18 year old daughter, called at the first of the year after having an incredible dream that, she said, seemed different than anything she had experienced before. To the best of my ability and through notes I took and her repeated telling, here is her dream. I was lying on a tile floor with my arm around her as she knelt by my side. As I opened the right side of my body which seemed to have no ribs, I reached in, taking out my heart, and said, dramatically, “I must offer my life so another might live!” She described the heart as gigantic and not from the left side of my body, but from the right. Although it was damp and a deep pink color, it was not bloody or wet, but beautiful. She said that she somehow saw within its hollow cavity another, smaller heart, about the size of a typical one. The large heart had a string somehow attached to it, like an umbilical cord, with a tag of some kind. Bryanne said that I then set it down on the tile and we both watched together as it continued to beat slower and slower, finally stopping and I closed my eyes. She said that she had confirmed to her at that time her decision to be a heart surgeon. She picked up the warm heart, opened back up my body, placed it inside and continued to rhythmically pump it until it started beating again, at which point she woke up, knowing that what she had just dreamed was pretty amazing and somehow surreal.

Saturday, Krystal and I got up very early and started out with Luis and his family via their car. Partway to Puerto Quito, traffic was stalled because of a landslide. Huge boulders and piles of mud filled the road. As we waited for it to be cleared by the tractors and crew, Marcela, Luis’ wife, commented that they had been inundated by an inordinate amount of rain over the last few months. Interesting! (Right about the time I had found The Sealed Portion there was unprecedented flooding very near my house in Santa Clara, Utah… Hmmmm.)

Arriving at Puerto Quito, Luis took care of his business there at the school site and then realized that his brakes were broken on the car. While he worked on the car, the others of us walked up and down the main street of town. Groups of pre-teen homeless boys, like swarms of bees, molested the local shopkeepers, kicking at their metal doors and otherwise making their lives, obviously, frustrated. I thought of my own Spencer (12) and Parker (10) and realized that it could easily be “them” in this situation if it were reversed.

After fixing the car and quite a lengthy investigation, Luis was able to find the name and whereabouts of the English teacher. When we found his house, both he and his wife, Miriam, happened to be home and graciously invited us in. As Marcela needed to be back to work in Quito that evening, we just had a short amount of time to visit. I gave them my copy in English of the prospectus I had prepared of Harmony House. Bolivar read through it and asked questions (in his halting English) while his wife gleaned what she could. Excitedly, she called the “Governor” of the province and was able to get me a spur-of-the-moment meeting with her.

When we arrived at the governor’s office, I was sweaty and “glistening” from the high humidity and dressed in Capri pants and a white T-shirt, my hair pulled back in a pony tail—not how one would typically dress for the occasion, but I’m sure it was all perfect. I was at peace.

As we waited a few minutes, Bolivar seemed to proceed to attempt to “sell” me on why Puerto Quito needed Harmony House more than any other place in Ecuador. (Although my heart filled with the disparity of the situation of so many young, needy children—as well as adults, I was beaming inside that I might have just found the match between my burning desire and others’ needs being fulfilled!) When the Governor came, I was introduced and then the three of them, Luis, Bolivar and Miriam presented my heart’s vision—at least I believe they did, as it was all done in Spanish and I only understood bits and pieces. They waited after asking me if I knew the meaning of her name “Narciza” (“the attribute of the human psyche characterized by a great amount of admiration of oneself; self love”—I had to look it up to be sure after I had gotten home :-)). Not remembering the exact definition, still I responded that with that name, she must be perfect for her job. :-)

As they commenced talking about Harmony House, it was obvious that Narciza was only partially interested and had a great many things weighing on her mind as she proceeded to open and read her mail. Occasionally she would ask questions or make comments. Although I have gotten somewhat capable of understanding spoken Spanish, I have never heard anyone speak as rapidly as she did and therefore, could glean very little from her words.

Narciza seemed greatly intrigued that someone (me) from the United States would come to her country and desire to truly help. I realized that she was focused on the “milliones” of dollars that it would require to facilitate my plan and she emphatically presented that they had no money to offer, though they could donate land. I interceded as best I could that “the focus is NOT on the money, but on the hearts and the hands of willing people.” I told her that I believe that everyone in the world has a beautiful heart, although some seem tightly closed at the present. There are a great many that see the grave situation of the present world and would like to help, but few have the proper vision of how to go about this.

I shared my belief that there are many people who could help in some way (large or small), and though some considered me “loco”, we each needed to proceed in our own unique way, even if not understood by others. One might have a box of left-over tile from a building project. Another may be moving to a smaller home and have children’s books, musical instruments, clothes, furniture or other materials that would be helpful to donate to the children. Another may have a great desire to manually work, thereby dedicating a month/ summer/ retirement/ rest of their life to building up and maintaining the facility or helping “parent” the children. Another may have money to donate but no interest or ability to directly help. Another might want to personally volunteer, but not have the money to get here. Yet another may have great organizing abilities to oversee the volunteers, etc. etc. I shared that this project, I believe, was one that was greatly needed by all the people in the world and that this first one would serve as a prototype for others and that, I believe, Harmony Houses will dot the globe some day.

Especially considering the current economic situation of the United States and the rest of the world, it is highly likely that this project will end up benefitting many people that never would have imagined themselves involved—or their children or grandchildren.

Not only that, but I have already met many people right here in Ecuador that have expressed interest in helping with this project, again, each in their own unique way.

Harmony House will be mostly self-sustaining in that most of the food will be produced on site through the fruit trees and gardens grown and tended there. Where possible, the power, sewage and water will be as efficient, even self-sufficient, as possible. Also, the children will be taught all the basic skills (at least to some degree) of running the community, such as gardening, maintaining the facilities, cleaning, helping to prepare the basic meals, caring for the clothes, etc. Depending on their interests and desires, they will be able to have further, more intensive training in any of these areas.

Lighthouse Academy, the sister component of Harmony House, is the name of the type of education that will be in place at Harmony House. In this system, the curriculum is largely determined by the child’s heart. Literature, reading, writing, arithmetic, music will all be taught utilizing “the classics” but the GREATEST classic for each child will be the “book” they “write” through their own experiences. There will be much freedom during the day to pursue their individual desires and become proficient in the areas of their choosing. This will be done through mentoring, individual study, group projects, or in other ways determined by their area of interest and in consultation with their educational advisors.

Because of time constraints and language impediments, I did not completely “flesh out” the Harmony House concept in our brief (probably 20 minute) meeting—nor will I here. However, I truly see Harmony House as a powerful way to mend the world, through the hearts and hands of those willing to help. If a reader has interest, I would be happy to send more information and/or meet with them in a mini-seminar of sorts.

Not only will the children be raised to live healthy, empowered, Joy-filled lives that benefit many others as well, but the outlying community itself will be blessed. Yes, there will be less and less “swarms” of molesting or haunting street children, but the effect will be much greater than that. Unlike any other program, Harmony House is not a barricaded structure but instead depends upon interaction with others.

The principles taught and lived at Harmony House are those that I have discovered and implemented in my own life and with my own children. They are the ones that created apparent miracles in the lives of the children in my preschool in the States and that have created rippling out effects from those who have attended my seminars. They are the very same principles that I have earnestly sought (and found) and been writing about in my books. Yet they are more pure and feasible now, because of my experiences. These principles are all about respecting all others (and HOW to do that) while living happy, empowered, healthy lives. For any who are interested, these principles are aligned with and lead to the Worldwide United Foundation: http://www.worldwideunited.org/

Only those with a degree of understanding and a desire to master these principles will be allowed to interact with the children within Harmony House. I believe that we will see similar results: physical bodies as well as emotions will be healed, intellect and creativity unseen before will be unleashed, and a peace and Joy will be found within each heart and, thus, within the collective interaction of all those living and helping there.

Although in no way opulent, Harmony House will be built, run and maintained with a high quality of workmanship and materials. The flower-graced lawns and the attention to detail of each structure will all echo the theme of respect and beautiful harmony. Music and laughter, learning and creativity will sing through the interactions allowed and encouraged by the setting.

People from all over the world who agree to the principles of H.H. (all hinging on a correct understanding and living of the “Golden Rule”), who have a craft or interest to share, will serve as “mentors” for the children who have similar interests. Those from the nearby communities will be invited to participate in periodic concerts and art shows or other “performances” where the children will perform and sell through “admission” and individual transactions the pieces they have been working/learning on. In this way, they will gain a sense of pride in their accomplishments, gain “feedback” from others, prepare for their future, as well as earn spending (or saving) money that they might choose to utilize for desired “things” (such as chocolate bars, iPods, things not considered “basic necessities” and provided by H.H.). By the time of maturity, these children will be prepared to enter out into the greater community as a true, whole, healed, happy, productive adult, ready to pursue an occupation of their passion and training as well as continue to interact in productive, empowering ways.

Plato said it best, "At the touch of love...everyone becomes a poet."

As our short discussion went on, with me mostly listening to the others, I watched as the Governor’s composure visibly relaxed and her countenance brightened. I will meet again with Narciza in a couple weeks to share the concept further, but…she enthusiastically agreed to donate 30 hectares (74 acres) to Harmony House—and we will begin in May. We parted with the warm hug of sisters.

In the parking lot, Miriam asked the ages that I would be interested in helping. I responded from birth to 18—or maturity. Surprised, she volunteered that her job is working with the homeless infants of the area and that there are over 1500 homeless orphans between the ages of 0-5 years old (usually sick and needy) in that small province of about 17,000 people.

As we drove home, I had my mind flood with understanding and awareness of how to proceed. I realized that this first community of homes would deal with only those of that age group (0-5) and that the next Harmony House could deal with more or with older children, and the next one with teenagers, until we had taken care of the needs of the community. Based upon these same principles, healing communities could be established for the sick and elderly.

I am also thrilled with the prospects of what this will do for the surrounding province. Of course a sense of hope will be restored. Knowing that people from the States and other places of the world are taking a real, hands-on interest in THEM will produce a heightened sense of pride in their dwellings and community. Morale will go up as the town physically cleans up in preparation for their visitors. Visiting mentors from throughout the world will probably spend time frequenting some of the local shops and restaurants, interacting with their previously unknown brothers and sisters. Camaraderie will be established.

Those who volunteer in various ways will find they experience a completely different kind of “health retreat”. Although we will all work “by the sweat of thy brow”, hearts and bodies will be mended through the attention to fresh, raw fruits and vegetables, fun physical activity in an incredible setting, while reaching out to help heal others. Those who thrill to interact with children will find a joy unknown before because of the joyful principles lived there. Those who thrill to be noticed for their mastery and contributions to society (through their mentoring and help in the community) will find a great joy through their interested “audience”. And, of course, the children. They will have their physical and emotional needs met, thus freeing them to really live meaningful, productive lives while they discover WHO they truly are.

I will need to train those who will be helping and interacting by presenting my “JOY of Harmony” Seminars, thus finding increased joy in that outlet myself. Interacting with and seeing the healing and growth of the children and others will also bring me tremendous joy. And, possibly, my own children will be able to come spend some time with me as volunteers. THAT would be the “cherry on top!” :-)

Placed in family-type groups with about 10 children each, the “parents” will certainly be giving and serving a great amount of the time. Groundskeepers, handymen, transportation help, food handlers, “substitute parents”, educators and mentors of all types will all be very important to the community. However, no one (NO ONE!) will be given any kind of a luxurious salary. In fact, besides the basic needs being met (basic, fresh food; clothing; shelter; etc.) no one will be paid a dime. This is not about money! This is about finding our lives by losing our lives in the service of others.

Interestingly, Marcela explained that this last weekend (and particularly Sunday, March 8th) was the international (though not in the States) “El Dia de la Mujer”—“Day of the Woman”. How appropriate that the meeting and the invitation to begin caring for the needs of the children occurred during this time! I believe that when the compassionate side (typically relegated to women) of more and more of us is acted upon (irrespective of gender), the children of the world will be cared for, the earth will be cleaned up, and the quality of life for each one of us will be enhanced in like manner.

I believe that there are many who are waiting and hoping that the governments and/or the religions of the world and/or "alien beings" arriving will do something that will “save us”. But, just perhaps, it will be from the proper governing of our own individual actions as prompted by our pure hearts (the “Temple” of our souls). Perhaps as we all do our own part, no matter how tiny or grand, in a way that brings us personal happiness, we can find a world of peace and joy for all.

I believe that there are many ancient scriptures that point to this day; many esoteric writings that describe our time. Without quoting any of them in this venue, but allowing each reader to form their own thoughts and understandings, I do offer that ONLY by focusing on the “least among us” (and these children without homes, parents, food, and so many of the other “necessities” that most of us take for granted certainly qualify as “the least of the least”) we will be bringing peace and a greater sense of fulfillment to our own hearts as we help to bring a greater quality and quantity of JOY to theirs—and to the world.

I find it of interest that Harmony House and the true uniting and cleansing of the world is being initiated here in Latin America. Perhaps these people, in their poverty-stricken, most of them far-from-materialistic-state are most prepared for the inception of these principles. It will be most interesting to see if there are those from the rest of the world who will be able to truly reach down deeply into their own hearts and make the kind of difference that only they can make.

Although, perhaps, not “our brother’s keeper”, we are our own. As we live true to our own inner promptings we also find ourselves doing that which is most helpful to others, too. I beseech each interested reader to ask themselves: “What can I do?”

After enough of us have united together, perhaps the “leaders” and governments will take note. Perhaps at that time the red-tape will be taken from the existing programs and the implementation of Harmony House will be changed somewhat. (For a powerful slide-show presentation of precisely how this can work, please go to: http://www.worldwideunited.org/ and sign the declaration.)

As Miriam prepares them and sends them on to me, I will be posting photos and highlights of the children and the general situation of the community. Perhaps this will be of help to those considering getting involved. If so, please watch for an upcoming blog issue. Also, “You Tube” has several videos of Puerto Quito which may be of interest to view.

For those who have my email address, feel free to write to me with your ideas. Others can write to me through the “contact” link address of my website.

May we each find peace and JOY in our own hearts as we bring increased JOY to those around us.

My great love to YOU,
Kimberly
www.loveistheanswer.info

P.S. Feel free to distribute this information and share it with all you feel to. May you have a happy day! :-)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYQovmtO06k&feature=related

It’s a Small World

It's a world of laughter, a world of tears;

It's a world of hopes and a world of fears;

There's so much that we share,

That it's time we're aware

It's a small world, after all.

It's a Small World, after all;

It's a small, small, world.

There is just one moon and one golden sun,

And a smile means friendship to everyone;

'Though the mountains divide,and the oceans are wide,

It's a small world, after all.

It's a Small World, after all;

It's a small, small, world.

Spanish:

En el mundo hay risas y dolor

Esperanzas y hay tambien temor

Mucho hay en verdad, que poder compartir

Entre la humanidad

Muy pequeño el mundo es

Debe haber mas hermandad

Muy pequeño es

Una luna hay solo hay un sol

Para todos brillan sin distincion

Y aunque muy grandes son, las montañas y el mar

Muy pequeño el mundo es

Debe haber mas hermandad

Muy pequeño es

Devember 18, 2008

2008-12-18T21:22:00.002-07:00

I did not get on the plane this morning. Would I? Would I not? In the back of my mind I had not been completely certain. When I bought my ticket way back in July, I was told that legally, I must buy a round-trip ticket (two actually, one for Krystal, also). Otherwise, we would not be allowed to board the plane from Arizona to Ecuador. So the ticket agent got out his calendar and counted out 90 days—December 18th –and made the round trip tickets for that date. If one calls it “faith”—mine was strong enough that I would respond to others, “but I won’t be using the return ticket. I don’t believe I’ll ever be coming back.”

But I didn’t KNOW that. And then, over the last several weeks especially, in the back of my mind was the lingering question (that sometimes even came to the forefront): would I really find a way to stay in Ecuador? How would the VISA situation play itself out?

So many possibilities, but none of them slick and easy as originally assured to me. When it finally came down to it, just a few days before my 90 days of permission to be in Ecuador was to expire, I was driven, along with two attorneys, by my dear new friend and brother, Luis, down to Police Immigration to acquire an extension. They were all filled with confidence that this was an easy, routine, requisition. After some round-about business, they were informed (“they” because “they” spoke the language) that I would NOT be permitted an extension because only those from countries that embraced the “Andean Pact” were allowed long-term residency here if not legally citizens. The reality of it was, I was told quietly, was that the new President did NOT like Americans.

Okay, so now what? If my heart were only, somehow, allowed permission to speak to the President’s heart and let him know what I would really like to help HIM DO for his Ecuadorian people! That there is AT THIS MOMENT a plan in place to care for EVERY ONE under his jurisdiction. As I pondered, I realized that this land was more “home” for me than anywhere else on this earth right now. If I went back “home” to Arizona (or any part of The United States, for that matter—and I did have two invitations), what would I do? How would I financially “make it?” Okay, so I would get to hug and be with “my” children probably one or two days for a few possibly wonderful hours. Then what?

Here, in Ecuador, was where my heart would be. Here, somehow, was my work to do, my joy to find, my life to lose. I realized that if I was put in jail, that, oh well, that just might be the way to open up my voice and heart to ears that were open and prepared to hear about the Worldwide United Foundation. Perhaps that would be how I could (at least initially) help the most. I knew that my dear friends, Luis and Marcella (and Beth eventually) would care for Krystal. All would be well.

So, here it is, D Day. I did not get on the plane. Instead, I was taken by Luis and Marcella to Mega Maxi, the store of all department stores in Quito. I thought I would buy some candy canes and white chocolate to make my “signature” Christmas delicacy. However, in the store that had everything any Quitoian could want, there were NO (as in not one) candy canes to be found. Candy canes? Oh, yes, they had heard of them, but no. They didn’t eat candy canes here. Also, there were no bars or chunks of white chocolate.

Hmm, well, maybe I’ll buy a small Christmas tree for our little apartment. There were a few decorations (looking back, it wasn’t even Christmas music being pumped into the air), and there was a very small plastic wall-hanging tree (for $9.98) that I thought about purchasing then decided against it, Krystal’s school art project tree could do just nicely. As I passed the two or three types of Christmas stockings offered for sale (I had previously bought Krystal and I “mittens”—they’re small and require less to “fill”), I inquired of Luis and Marcela if they had any traditions that were special to their family. No, Ecuadorians did not fill stockings, Santa Claus did not come down any chimney (although they had read about that in American stories), but they did have a dinner the evening before and then opened up a couple presents that “Papa Noel” had left.

Interestingly, Luis then told me how he “hated” the holiday. For him, he was sickened at witnessing the commercialism (wow, if he could only see how that word looked in another “America”!) and the vast discrepancy between those who “had” and the many more that “had not.”

As I thought about “my” eight beautiful children, thousands of miles away from me…no holiday traditions being celebrated together, no Christmas stockings to fill, no Christmas Eve pajamas to open around the tree, no tree even—not even a small one propped up on a table, no caroling, no candy making and delivering, no hugs, music and hushed secrets…unbidden tears cascaded down my face. I could not stop them.

Oh, the sham of it all! I had tried for several years to participate on MY terms with the holiday. No stress, little money and hustle, many hugs and fun memories. A focus on the true gift; real peaceful love for ALL, a mere amplification of my life throughout the year.

Now, however, I would be unable to even do that, at least with “them”. Would “my” children really know how much I loved them and wanted their happiness more than my own? Would they know that their “REAL” Joy would bring me joy untold? Would they realize that I felt the same for every other child (no matter the age) , and could not stop until my life’s fire was spent in doing whatever miniscule act I could that my heart propelled me towards, knowing that in this way, their lives would be more greatly blessed in the long run, too?

Quiet sobs came unrestrained, but only for a few moments. Shaking myself, I knew that all truly was well and would work together for good. Christmas tree or no Christmas tree. White chocolate goodies or no white chocolate goodies. Children or no children. Presents and stockings and candy canes or not. Many children (if not most) in Ecuador and most other parts of the world would not even enjoy a warm bed for “sweet visions” of anything, much less a warm meal and a hug.

Yes, it's "Christmas" and yes I have seen several decorations, but NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO it is not anywhere near the chaos and materialism that is taking place elsewhere. I am thousands of miles away from "my" children and who-knows-how-far from helping these other children of “mine” here. But, somehow I know that I am helping in my own small way. There's nowhere else on earth that seems as much "home" to me, yet my heart is so full with the discrepancy of those who HAVE and those who know-not-that -they-do-not-have.

Whatever my future looks like, I am here. Now is my moment. Krystal will feel my love. “My” other eight living children will too, I hope, being firmly rooted together in our hearts.

Later this afternoon, Luis took me to pay for and pick up the promotional flyers announcing the English classes I will be starting to teach in the afternoons and evenings at his school. As he drove, he began sharing something from deep in his heart. Only understanding part of what he spoke, he promised to write it down and send it to me via email. He did. I include here what he wrote, followed by a translation.

My new friend coincidentally shared with me this experience of his from long ago on this very day of deep peace AND emotions. This was just another poignant witness that my life IS being guided, that, however ludicrous my decisions may appear to others, I am finding my way (and doing that, as Frank Sinatra sang, *“My Way”). Interesting that Diego Romero expressed very similar sentiments to these expressed by Luis a few weeks ago as we were shopping with his relatives in the Otavallo market: somehow, he knew he knew me from somewhere. As soon as he met me he “recognized” me and felt very connected and close. (And, though the reader may intuit an erroneous viewpoint, both of these men I consider dear “brothers” and, I believe, they would each declare that I am a dear “sister.”) People are being prepared. Though certainly not slick and easy, my feet are being led.

My life will NOT be in vain. Following the peaceful promptings in my heart, I will find my way. However that may look to others. (They see with their own eyes, anyway.)

Here’s what Luis shared today, entitled “Un Sueno” (a dream):

MY FRIEND.

Hace unos años, quizá unos 8 años yo tuve un hermozo sueño, cuando yo en ese entonces me encontraba solo y en una situación muy dificil, en la que tenía un contrato por 91 millones de sucres para realizar unos trabajos en una hacienda ubicada en Pintág; en ese entonces los bancos cerraron por un mal llamado "feriado Bancario" en la que el dinero quedó congelado, al no tener el dinero suficienteciente no había para contratar trabajadores me tocó trabajar solo y para ahorrar combustible de mi coche me quedaba a dormir en el y una noche muy cansado me había quedado profundamente dormido, en eso de la 1 de la mañana aproximadamente soñaba que había una mujer muy hermoza de cabellos rubios con un vestido bello de tez blanca me acariciaba mis cabellos y me hacía sentir una paz inmensa y al momento que senti que habrío la puerta de mi coche desperté y la vi que se alejó en ese instante yo baje de mi coche y dije es verdad o un simple sueño.

Cuándo por primera vez te conocí me sorprendí, pero pasó unos días y en mi mente pasaban muchas cosas y me pregunte dónde le conocí y al recordar el sueño traté de encontrarte péro por algunos días no aparecias hasta que un lindo día te ví pasar y te invite de nuevo a pasar a la escuelita. y hoy tengo la suerte de que estes aqui en pérsona. Crees tu que me pudo haber pasado? fué sueño o realidad.tus hojos son los mismos que ví.

siempre
LUIS

Here’s a translation:

MY FRIEND.

A few years ago, maybe about 8 years, I had a wonderful dream. During this time, I found myself alone and in a very difficult situation. I had a contract for 91 thousand sucres to complete some work on a ranch located in Pintág. However, the banks closed because of problems and so all the money was frozen. Since I did not have enough money sufficient to hire workers I was required to work by myself. I had to save fuel for my car so I was left to sleep in my car. One night, when I was very tired, I had fallen deeply asleep, and at around 1 am I dreamed about a very beautiful woman with light colored hair wearing a beautiful white, lacy dress. She caressed my hair and made me feel an immense peace. At that moment, I felt the door of my car opened and I awoke. I saw that she had left. At that instant I got out of my car and I questioned, is it true or just merely a dream?

When I met you for the first time, it surprised me, but a few days passed and in my mind I thought about a lot of things and I asked myself, where did I know her? And as I remembered the dream I tried to find you for a few days but you did not appear until on a wonderful day you saw me pass and I invited you again to go to the school. And today I have the luck that you are here in person. Can you believe what has happened? Was it a dream or reality? Your eyes are the same ones that I saw.

always
LOUIS

Pleasant dreams, or, as the Ecuadorian’s say: “Duerme con sus angeles!” (Sleep with the angels!)
Kimberly :-)

“My Way”
And now, the end is near;And so I face the final curtain.My friend, I’ll say it clear,I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain.I’ve lived a life that’s full.I’ve traveled each and ev’ry highway;And more, much more than this,I did it my way.Regrets, I’ve had a few;But then again, too few to mention.I did what I had to doAnd saw it through without exemption.I planned each charted course;Each careful step along the byway,But more, much more than this,I did it my way.Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knewWhen I bit off more than I could chew.But through it all, when there was doubt,I ate it up and spit it out.I faced it all and I stood tall;And did it my way.I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried.I’ve had my fill; my share of losing.And now, as tears subside,I find it all so amusing.To think I did all that;And may I say - not in a shy way,No, oh no not me,I did it my way.For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself, then he has naught.To say the things he truly feels;And not the words of one who kneels.The record shows I took the blows -And did it my way!

In Harmony

2008-11-17T14:07:00.009-07:00

On one of the first days of our experience in Ecuador, as Krystal and I were walking toward the nearby park, I began picking up strains from a beautiful melody. As I drew closer, my eyes spontaneously filled with tears that tumbled down my cheeks as my heart swelled. I wasn't even conscious at that moment of what I was experiencing. It took me a few seconds to recognize the song "Chiquitita" and to mentally sing the words to the beautiful andean flute. As I later pondered my overwhelming response, I realized: this was a song that I had known from my youth, the original artists were Scandinavian, the words were in English, I had heard it and sung along with it often in my former home of The United States. Now here I was, in yet another part of the world, South America, hearing it played on an indigenous flute, welcoming me to my knew home. The title was in Spanish.

The singularity of the experience--all those different cultures and parts of the globe joining together in harmony to provide me this lyrical, soul-stirring moment! I felt very moved.

"Chiquitita" means "little girl." As I came home and searched the lyrics, I found them, also, to be most fitting. Here they are:

Chiquitita, tell me what’s wrong
You’re enchained by your own sorrow
In your eyes there is no hope for tomorrow
How I hate to see you like this
There is no way you can deny it
I can see that you’re oh so sad, so quiet.

Chiquitita, tell me the truth
I’m a shoulder you can cry on
Your best friend, I’m the one you must rely on.
You were always sure of yourself
Now I see you’ve broken a feather
I hope we can patch it up together.

Chiquitita, you and I know
How the heartaches come and they go and the scars they’re leaving.
You’ll be dancing once again and the pain will end
You will have no time for grieving.
Chiquitita, you and I cry
But the sun is still in the sky and shining above you.
Let me hear you sing once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita.
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita.

So the walls came tumbling down
And your love’s a blown out candle.
All is gone and it seems too hard to handle.
Chiquitita, tell me the truth
There is no way you can deny it
I see that you’re oh so sad, so quiet.

Chiquitita, you and I know
How the heartaches come and they go and the scars they're leaving.
You’ll be dancing once again and the pain will end
You will have no time for grieving.

Chiquitita, you and I cry
But the sun is still in the sky and shining above you
Let me hear you sing once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita.
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita.

Music is powerful! It reaches into the subconscious mind and brings forth feelings and actions that have changed lives. Krystal and I have experienced much in the ensuing weeks since my poignant experience with Chiquitita. Not only have I been continuing to feel more and more in harmony within my own being, but I have been getting a more clear vision of how my harmony will, potentially, increase and bless the lives of others, rippling out to bring a harmonious, joy-filled world where, truly, "the hills are alive with the sound of music!"

To recap some of the highlights:

Three weekends ago, the plans that Krystal and I had had for that weekend to go to "El Oriente" (the rain forest) and visit some new friends, learning about the people and their needs in that part of Ecuador, were changed at the last moment. Other plans had come up for those who were also involved and who were going to take us there and act as translators. This propeled me to take us (via bus) to "La Mitad del Mundo" (the Middle of the World) just outside of Quito. This monument marks the place where scientists collaborated and marked the exact point of the equator.

Here I am holding the world in my right hand while Krystal straddles the equator, a foot in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

Krystal is looking over a serene setting in the middle of the park-like atmosphere of the cultural center.

Krystal is playing with a young girl on one of the fun park features. She loved this spider-web type contraption that I would spin around and around for them!

A dear friend had told me about a man and his wife that she had taken lessons from years past who would teach about Ecuador, the people, culture, and real estate. She gave me their contact information and the wife and I emailed back and forth a few times. She invited me to Cotacachi for that coming weekend, where they had a beautiful hotel and were offering a seminar for those looking to do business in Ecuador. Their attorney would be presenting info on acquiring VISA's. I thought that this might be just the opportunity that I needed to find answers to what I could do to lengthen my stay--perhaps forever. Although the seminar was several days long, I was invited to freely attend the Sunday class. At the last moment, I found out that the attorney was speaking Saturday morning--and I had no way to get there in time to hear him. Since Cotacachi is relatively close to San Pablo and I had been invited to be in San Pablo for Saturday and Sunday to again stay with the Romero family, I decided to go anyway, and Anna Marie (a new friend and one of the Romero family) came with me to the morning session.

Cotacachi is a beautiful, clean city. It is amazing what a bit of vision and attention to detail, coupled with money being pumped into the town by outsiders, can achieve. What a stark contrast it offered me to many of the other towns (which were laid out very similar to it).

Here is Anna Maria, outside the church in the middle of downtown Cotacachi.

This last weekend, Krystal and I again went to San Pablo. The purpose this time was for Diego Romero (previously referred to as Diego #2) and I to have time to share and explore some possibly related thoughts. Several times I had been told by his relatives that I seem just like him (by both his sisters' families). Although they would share very little, they would marvel often about the apparent similarities.

I have been slowly learning that Diego has given up a lucrative musical career in Quito to move back to his family home in San Pablo with his father and give his life to the poor children there, filling their worlds with music and happiness. He is endeavoring to help the community (particularly its children) learn and enjoy music while finding their own peace and happiness.

Though Diego knows no english, and my spanish is faltering at best, we both knew that as we communicated our hearts, understanding and sharing would take place. It didn't take long before I realized that very possibly the reason why I was "called" to Ecuador was to reopen my dream of "Harmony House" and work in partnership with Diego. Could it be?

It is amazing how cohesive our dreams are! Eight years ago, when I was "shown a vision" of Harmony House, I saw a place of beauty, peace, and healing on all levels-- emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I saw a place of transcendent learning and sharing...a "place of true harmony."

As my (then) husband and children enthusiastically joined with me in our pursuit, we learned much from other somewhat similar ventures. My attorney husband did all the legal work necessary to attain 501C-3 non-profit status. During one particular visit with an orphan-placing foundation, C.A.S.I., it was determined that the home we would establish (then called "Harmony House for Children") could potentially be a prototype for the Chinese government to help them learn how to deal with their 80+million orphans in orphanages (97% of them being female--raised until the age of 12, at which time they were thus sold for slaves of one kind...or another). The President of the foundation asked me how many we would be able to provide care for. I quickly, whole-heartedly responded, "80 million!"

Well, his meetings with Madame Wang (the leader over all the orphanages in China), the leaders of the Chinese government, and those from the American government did not fare well at all. He came back to say that every door that could be closed, did--particularly by the American officials. When our funding did not come in, the ranch that we had found (through some most amazing experiences) fell through, and then, my marriage dissolved, I had pretty much wondered about that whole, amazing experience and put it "on the shelf" in the back of my mind until understanding came--knowing it would some day. (Much more of this incredible story is told in my forth-coming autobiography.)

I now get it!!! I won't share much in this venue, but, suffice it to say...I wasn't ready! I had much to learn, many attachments (relationships, things, belief systems, etc.) to let go of and rearrange in my mind and life. I had much refining to go through. I had the principles that I am now writing about in my book, "The JOY of Harmony--How to JOYfully Raise Happy Children," to fine-tune and begin sharing.

Now, however, it looks quite possible that the time and I are ripe. I believe the world is crying out (and not in harmony!) for a different vision, another song, another way of living and interacting. And now, I may have a partner who has similar values and who lives, similarly, from a peaceful, passionate heart, willing and ready to help heal a troubled world--one young soul at a time.

Again, I am living in the moment. Although I have a vision of what I want for the world, I'm not completely clear what each of the steps will be for my part in helping to get us there. I do have pieces of the puzzle and will endeavor to live in the NOW and let my life flow from one step to another as I do whatever I feel in my joy-filled heart is the needed.

Here, Krystal is playing with friendly girls in the street outside the Romero house in San Pablo.

Here is a photo of some of the group of students that Diego works with in the afternoons. There is definately a respect and deep bond they each have for him, and he for them.

Outside of the government building in the central square are many indigenous women who wait for their "hand out."

Diego took Krystal and I on a drive and hike a little ways outside of San Pablo. This is his favorite place. As I entered this beautiful valley, I was overcome with emotion. This was beyond beauty. Truly, this picture seemed to match the one I "saw" in my mind that day of late December 2000 when I first was given the understanding of "Harmony House."

Several water falls of various sizes grace this serene land that seems to have never been touched much by humans.

Another view. In the far distance you can see San Pablo lake.

Verdant, lush, gorgeous!

Krystal and Diego by the little mountain stream.

Here, Krystal plays with some of the local girls who were here enjoying the day with their family. They are music students of Diego's. Krystal is deciding that the water is just a bit too cold for her and is on her way out.

(I wish you could see her a few minutes later--nearly naked and sloshing in the rich, black, mud--nearly covered with it. Alas, my camera battery had died.)

My dream for Harmony House, which has been newly refueled, and seems to be shared by Diego, is as a self-sustaining community of peace, healing, learning, creating and love; a place where children without homes and support can be integrated and thrive, knowing they belong, are accepted, appreciated for their unique essence and have a feeling of being needed for their contributions. Harmony House will be a (largely) self-sufficient (food, clothing, water, power, natural healing, empowering in every way) place of peace where street children and orphans can come and find solace, genuine love and healing, growing to maturity in wisdom. It is a community of family-type homes where music and true, passionate education (of the heart and mind together) fill the individual and society. I see Harmony House as a seedbed for a new kind of human, a being who is no longer a victim, no longer lonely, depressed, angry, but empowered and joy-filled as each interdependently and respectfully lives the golden rule and grows UP happy, productive citizens of society.

Early in 2003, I awoke one morning with the "knowing" that I must prepare myself, for one day I would be leading the children of this world in a grand choir of peaceful, empowering, song. (At that time, my understanding was that it was "my" birth children that the message must be implying.) I began immediately to glean from my vast reservoir of music a simple collection of songs that seemed to fit this need. Since then (and, indeed, throughout my life) I have composed simple little tunes of empowerment and joy, sharing them with the children in my "world" and watching as this music has made deep impressions in each of our lives. As I sold off basically everything I owned this last summer to begin this venture, gratefully, I still have access to this music. I KNOW that further music will be written and come forth to aid in this grand healing venture as we each join--in harmony--in a grand "Multi-Verse."

Diego says that the name "Harmony House" ("La Casa de Harmonia" in spanish) "!es perfecto!" Without the addition of ..."for Children" it keeps the implication that ALL who join in the effort and vision will share in the harmony and healing--not just "children." For, indeed, each one of us has a "child" still alive and waiting to be heard and healed living within our own heart.

Years ago, I was "given" the principles for TRUE education. Although I have greatly fine-tuned these through the years, I have named this style of education "Lighthouse Academy." In addition to the healing principles that I have learned (physical, mental and emotional), this education will be utilized in Harmony House. The BASIC needs will be provided for along with the governing laws being: equality, everyone lives by "The Golden Rule," and the pursuit of happiness is the reason for living and interacting, AS IT IS MADE POSSIBLE.

The nearby communities and volunteering artisans and workmen (as well as interested parties from around the world!) will intermingle with Harmony House members to mentor and assist (while also being held to the governing laws), training those who are interested in their art and skill. The children will then be able to sell their works to others to provide not only opportunities to learn and contribute, but to receive personal monetary remuneration for their desires not covered by the basic necessities provided by Harmony House.

Although I truly did not know why my sudden impetus this summer to sell everything and go live in Ecuador, I did have some vague notions why. As I wrote in my letter (which is my first blog post) of July 4th, 2008: "Again, where my life will continue to lead, where I will go from there, I can’t even guess. It is likely that I will help in orphanages. I might open a school of some kind. Perhaps I will make and sell my “green drinks” and smoothies. Perhaps I will do nothing more than walk among the poor and bind up their hearts as I laugh with and interact with them. Whatever I find to do to sustain us and fulfill our inner joy in life, I am fairly sure it will involve children and parents, music and laughter. All I know is that life is a grand adventure; love IS the (only) answer; the injunction to “do unto others as you would have others do unto you”—always—is the only road to true and lasting peace."

As I have shared bits of my dream for Harmony House (and its expansion to help create a peace-filled world), Diego has jumped in and gone to my next sentence. Saturday, as Krystal and I were walking around the town of San Pablo, I saw in my mind how I wanted the layout of the community to be. When we got home and I shared that with Diego, he picked up my notebook and quickly sketched it out, showing me his bracelet that had the symbolic representation on it. Then, he went and got his many year's old notebook where he had written his dream, along with the same lay-out drawn in it.

Even at this early stage in our partnering, there are many synchronicities. To me, it feels like I have found a dear, long-separated brother. I'm sure we go way back and have had many similar experiences together--before this life. As Diego and I went to an internet cafe in town to see the slideshow on the Worldwide United Foundation (http://www.wwunited.org/) he was thrilled! Here was his dream from many years past all written down and ready for humanity. He enthusiastically signed the declaration.

Diego shared with me a pivotal chapter of his life. From my understanding of what he shared, when he was eight years old, he was profoundly ill, affecting the bones of his body. The medical community, who called upon many experts, were at a loss of what else they might try to bring him relief from his tremendous pain and to alleviate his suffering--having lost hope in finding a source of healing. Then, somehow, he was introduced to music. He immediately began to heal, find great passion and, his life has never been the same since. Music was his "savior" and has been his way-shower to help bless the lives of many others.

Sunday, I was able to briefly meet a Catholic Father who has a self-sustaining (and very beautiful) home for Aids children there in San Pablo. He has said that his home is my home and that I am invited to visit, question, and learn from what he has put together. Although very different from that which Diego and I endeavor to build, there are many common themes. I also was able to meet Diego's friend who is working to enliven the town to take care of the buildings and find self-respect in bettering their lives. Also, Diego introduced me to another friend who is a member of the government of the Imbaburra Province. With each of these we briefly shared our "project."

Both Diego and I smilingly acknowledge that there are many who consider us each "loco" (stupid or foolish). I have learned that I really don't care much what any other thinks of me. Indeed, there is great freedom in living as a "fool." My desire is to follow the passionate barometer of my own heart and live my joy as I, perhaps, bless the lives of others. This I will do.

There are still many unknowns. Is this the right time for Harmony House? Am I yet ready? How will we proceed? In pooling everything we each own, we have scant resources and very little money to begin. BUT...we each have deep desires to bless humanity and fill the hills, mountains, lowlands far and wide with music, healing, harmony and happiness. With this passion, there is no way we will not at least make some progress and leave the world a little better than we have found it.

Perhaps Harmony House will begin here in Ecuador and serve as a prototype for further areas of the world. With the extreme poverty and the 80% illiteracy rate in San Pablo, it seems a good place to start.

Diego and I certainly can not do this alone. Perhaps there are others who will feel to help us in this venture. I have the vision, I have some helpful experiences and, of course, my driving passion, but certainly there are others of like heart who will step forward to offer what they can.

We each have a lot to do, together and separately, to get this project going, but one foot in front of the other, receiving direction from our hearts and peaceful minds...IT SHALL BE DONE.

I have a dream. My dream and peaceful joy will lead my footsteps, guide my hands, be my voice. I believe that by living and bringing forth my dream, many, many lives will be healed and made whole. At least mine will.

Chiquitita (little girl), you CAN sing a new song. A song of hope. A song of JOY. A song of LIFE.

Last night, while preparing for bed, I felt a "shift" of some kind come over me. I realized that I was experiencing a profoundly deep level of patience...peace...allowing. As I pondered on the singularity of the feeling, I realized that the last few weeks I had not been feeling this much continual peace on this deep a level. Instead, somewhere in the back part of my mind, I had been wondering and searching for just HOW to establish the contacts and how to maneuver extending my stay long-term here in Ecuador. I knew that I still had so very much to do! I had been sensing that my time here was possibly ticking away. Had I accomplished what I had come here for? Although for every possible moment of every day I have been working on my books and caring for those other bits of life that need attention (often during the night while Krystal--and the rest of the world--sleeps), it seemed that I was not making nearly the progress that I want. With all that I have been continuing to learn and put together that I passionately want to share and help others with (including feeling my own passionate JOY in the learning/discovering/remembering/sharing process), I have more now than ever that I want to bring forth, write about and accomplish. (Much more than will fit in just "one book" to write. Many volumes.)

But, now, I realize, it's all okay...truly okay. If I have to leave here tomorrow, I am at peace. If I have not been granted a VISA or found another way to remain in Ecuador and have to utilize my airline tickets back to Arizona on December 18th, that is okay. AND, if the way somehow does open up and I am allowed to stay here and do the work that seems to be coming into greater clarity within my heart and mind, that's okay, too. I am not the ultimate overseer of this world...just my "own world." Whatever the appropriate timing, whatever the real project, I will remain awake in my soul and vigilant in following its call. In patience. And peace. And harmony. Considering what I've been learning and experiencing, this deep level of allowance with 'whatever is to be' is significantly poignant.

I now leave the reader in peace...

and harmony.

Until we meet again, over the great "net" or in person,

Kimberly

Keep smiling! :-)

Face to Face with "Michelle"--My Belle

2008-10-30T12:55:00.007-07:00

I have had problems with my printer and computer since arriving here. While taking my printer in for servicing one day last week, I passed a young toddler seated on a filthy cushion on the street corner--a box of chicklet (gum) to sell by her side. Her mother was no where to be seen, although there were several people walking up and down the streets, entreating the car drivers and those walking to buy their goods.

I was appalled!. This was a tiny girl, all by herself. As I quietly walked up behind a tree to take a picture of her, she saw me and eagerly, authoritatively, ran to me, saying: "Give me money! Give me money, please. PLEASE give me money!!! I have nothing to eat." (This was said in Spanish.) I bought a package of gum from her, to which she nearly snatched the dime from my hand. I asked her what her name was: "Michelle" was her reply. Michelle answered my next question that she was two years old. She was the most assertive two-year-old I have ever met (and I have met and interacted with many!).

As I left Michelle, I began weeping. The two young men with me tried to console me by saying that "this was normal. There are many children just like this throughout the country. It's normal. These children have experienced much, like a 60 year old man."

How my heart yearned to hold her (and each of these other children) in my arms and to help fill their empty stomachs and hearts. Oh! For each child in our global family to feel loved, appreciated, to have their physical and emotional needs met so that they were free to pursue their own, unique HAPPINESS!

I have been told that many parents have children precisely so that they can set them out on the streets to work for money for the family. Possibly, it was Michelle's older sister (about 14, perhaps) who had a tiny baby strapped to her back, walking up and down through the cars on the street, selling her wares. Other parents "rent" their children out to work for others. Some of these parents never see their children again. Sometimes these children are found having been physically and emotionally violated. The now-deceased father of the family I'm renting from took a young girl in and raised her for a time when she was young, alleviating her family from providing for one more mouth to feed and body to clothe.

Oh, how often my eyes are flooding with tears. I have a work to do, a passion in my heart to listen to and follow. Somehow, My life will not be "in vain." Little Michelle, finding a way to help implement the Worldwide United Foundation's plan will guide my life and thoughts. I pledge to you and the millions of others--in Ecuador, and worldwide--that your life will be blessed because of mine. This hope and picture in my mind bring me great joy and light a flame that will not be extinguished.

Michelle--lyrics (Lennon/McCartney)

Michelle, my belle*. These are words that go together well, my Michelle.

Michelle, my belle. Sont les mots qui vont tres bien ensemble, tres bien ensemble.**

I love you, I love you, I love you. That's all I want to say.

Until I find a way I will say the only words I know that you'll understand.

Michelle, my belle. Sont les mots qui vont tres bien ensemble, tres bien ensemble. I need to, I need to, I need to. I need to make you see, oh, what you mean to me. Until I do I'm hoping you will know what I mean. I love you. I want you, I want you, I want you. I think you know by now I'll get to you somehow. Until I do I'm telling you so you'll understand.

Michelle, my belle. Sont les mots qui vont tres bien ensemble, tres bien ensemble. I will say the only words I know that you'll understand, my Michelle.

(*Beauty)

(**Are the words which go together well, go together well.)

Last weekend, the people I'm renting from took Krystal and I to San Pablo--a tiny village about two hours north of Quito. This was our first excursion out of Quito in the 5 weeks we've been here. In this tiny village, which lay among verdant fields, mountains and lakes, was squallor and poverty. The dirt and stone streets that were in decay among the houses and stores were likewise, filled with those begging and selling. And yet...

the weekend we were there was their annual birthday celebration. What comaraderie and sense of "family" they exuded. We were able to join in with their music, dancing, and fireworks. Fun!

Here is a hand-crafted and assembled "work of fire" that turned, twisted, and progressively lit itself as those assembled looked on. And the band played on....

Here is Krystal with her new friend, Stephanie, and her father Ricardo (the one who picked me up from the airport and has helped me much in getting established and learning the language). Also in the picture are Fernando Sr. and his wife Elena. Fernando is my friend, Fernando's, father. He and Elena have invited Krystal and I to their house tomorrow for a long weekend. They live in "El Oriente"--in the Amazon Rain Forest. According to them, the real poverty is there.

Here is Krystal and Hugo, washing the vegetables for a dinner in the huge sink outdoors.

Techi allowed Krystal to help bake a cake. Krystal was thrilled with each step of the process. Here she is licking the batters to the frosting she just helped make.

Patti and Techi preparing dinner in the kitchen.

With Diego (another Diego--Ricardo's brother-in-law) we go to the Otovallo Market. Here is a man cutting open coconuts to sell for their milk.

Such beautiful handcrafts of all sorts for sale. Incredible workmanship at very cheap prices.

Here, a young woman poses with her hand-embroidered and sewn blouses. Exquisite!

Until next time......

Smiles as we each follow the barometer of our heart!

Kimberly

One Month Today! October 20, 2008

2008-10-20T10:12:00.006-07:00

Yea! I figured out how to upload photos to the blog! I have a lot of pictures I'd like to share of our experiences so far in Quito. Here we go.........!

The first picture is during our "Early Morning Good-bye" as Krystal and I leave for the airport (September 20th, 2008).

Here is one of the favorite viewpoints of Quito, "El Panecillo." "The Virgin of Quito" is made of aluminum and consists of 7,000 pieces, considered to be the largest aluminum statue in the world. Among other things, it shows the Virgin having overcome and holding the chains on the serpent as she raises her right hand. Interesting. The hill has also served religious purposes as a temple to revere the sun.

Here we are outside of the "San Francisco Cathedral." There are so very many elaborate, ostentaciously decorated and designed churches. I have read how it was the sign of power for a developing city to build as many churches as possible, as quickly as possible, to set itself up as a force to be reckoned with. To see the extensive gold facade and incredible attention to detail in these churches is heart-wrenching, especially when so many poor men, women and children hovel so close outside their doors--many having given nearly every penny they ever acquire to "their savior" and church. Oh, how my heart aches for this massive delusion. Hopefully, I am here to help...

Here are Krystal and Diego as the camera looks toward the altar inside the San Francisco Cathedral.

Here is Krystal and I on "Liberty Square"--dedicated on my birthday, August 10th.

I met two young men (19 years old) from Quebec, Canada, yesterday, named Vincent and Sebastien, that have just started (as of that morning) to travel, by foot and back packs, South America to see and experience the people and cultures. We kept running into each other in the park (where thousands of other people were out in social exchanges, playing, selling and buying, begging, etc.) until we decided that we must be "supposed" to meet and get to know each other. We ended up with them coming to the apartment and having watermelon with us and talking. They saw the slide show on the Worldwide United Foundation site and immediately resonated with it, both signing the declaration.

It turns out they are between college and university studies. One is going into teaching young children and music and wants to end up either in northern Quebec or Africa, working among the poor. The other wants to pursue organizational management and work (with his friend in some way) with a non-profit organization helping homeless children. They left, excited to spread the word of the Worldwide United Foundations' plan TO HELP EVERYONE as they travel throughout South America and meet people--and then back home with their groups of friends.

Another friend, Roy, called me yesterday after arriving home from a conference in Texas where he is pursuing building geodesic dome homes, which he wants to do for the poor as well as for places of healing. His best friend and boss is in Lima, Peru next week and may come up to meet me to see about starting building homes for the poor here in Ecuador. He had some excellent thoughts and has a great heart. It's amazing to see the synchronicities that are coming together with those of like mind and heart.

Beth called last night, excited, to share that she had just gotten off the phone with a dear friend from twenty years ago (when she was in Ecuador) who is a dentist and is also married to a dentist and now living in Las Vegas. She had not been in contact with her for a long time. She found out that her friend's oldest daughter, living here in Quito, had just had her first baby the day before and had been sent home from the hospital after having a C-section the next day. Could I visit her? With all my experiences giving birth and caring for babies and newborns as well as the desires of my heart, perhaps I can somehow help her. I will call her today and see what I can do. Her mother, Beth's friend, will be here in a week and a half and will take me to an orphanage that she used to have experience with.

Here is a scene from the street right near our apartment. It is very typical of the downtown area.

Krystal and I began last week to help at an orphanage "Hogar San Vicente de Paul" on Wednesdays. It is fun to see her "mimic" me as she helps them. We were mostly with the two-year-olds, so she was just older than them.

If you look closely at their playground, you will notice that every toy is broken and would probably be in a junkyard if it were in the U.S.

I have been told that this is probably one of the nicer orphanages in all of Ecuador.

I have desires to find and help at others, particularly one called the "Zambiza Dump" where children play while their parents find their day's food.

Here is Krystal, all ready for her first day of school. She is enjoying her preschool, "The Sunrise House" and will begin today to stay until four o'clock in the afternoon (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday)--hopefully this will help her more with socializing and integrating, and give me more concentrated time to do my "work." A few days before she began school, and just a couple days after we had found it and made arrangements, she began giggling in her sleep in the middle of the night. Still asleep, she said, "We're in Ecuador. I love Ecuador! I'm going to preschool in Ecuador!" At this point, she had woken herself and we hugged and giggled together. This was a very validating experience for me.

I am amazed at how well she has adjusted. Although there have been a few times that she has mentioned "I miss ______," she has been so accepting of this huge change in her life. Her teacher tells me that she is just barely now beginning to say a few words in spanish during school. Krystal tells me that she only talks by "nodding her head." I read her stories in both spanish and english and help prompt her from time-to-time as we are interacting with others. She is beginning to initiate "Como estas?" and "gracias" and "buenas noches." I'm sure her language attempts will continue to grow as she feels more solidly a part of the culture.

We have had a great time walking and watching and interacting (at least on our somewhat limited basis) with the people, food, language and culture. As I had packed mostly warmer-climate-clothes for myself (what I had mostly been wearing in Arizona), we have had to buy ourselves a few sweaters, slippers and warmer things while here (from the indigenous market). Although there are very hot, humid places in Ecuador (or so I've been told), Quito is definately NOT one of them. Yesterday I found some knitted gloves without the finger tips that I am now able to wear while working at the computer. Yea!!! My hands can stay warm now while I type!
The owners of the apartment I'm renting from agreed this weekend to getting a better shower water heater. Hopefully, soon, we will be able to take warm showers and baths again! Also, I have permission to have the curtain fixed and put up in the bedroom so that we can have some privacy.

This is Krystal with Luis, one of the native musicians who plays often at the city park we like to go to.

Here she is on one of the climbing/sliding toys.

A friend of Diego's, Carolina, took Krystal and I to an orphanage and an infirmary. She had been raised by a mother who felt it was important that she and her sisters develop a heart of compassion. Regularly they had gone to help at this orphanage. Later, her mother and a friend established an infirmary, a home for the sick elderly and dying. Although we weren't allowed into the rooms of the infirmary with Krystal, I will go back at a later time to see if I may be of help there.

These are just some of the "fortuitous" experiences I am having. It's amazing to see how people are coming into my life with similar hearts and desires. I am not seeking them out, things are just "flowing." It's fun to watch! It's almost like a grand puzzle putting itself together. Today marks the one-month mark that we have been here. Will we return home in December??? Will we come in contact with some kind of agency/organization and be able to gain a Visa for long-term staying? We'll see what puts itself together.

Keep smiling and giggling as you continue to "DUO" (do unto others as you would have others do unto you)!

Kimberly

THIS is LIVING! :-)

2008-10-08T07:36:00.002-07:00

My Dearest Friends~

This is both an update and an invitation...

For any who remember, I have had a tremendous change of life open up for me--unknowingly solicited from deep within my own heart.

Since the end of June, when my "call", my heart's call, came, I have consolidated, organized, and sold off EVERYTHING. I have relinquished my "livelihood"--my preschool business--while helping to accommodate a smooth and peaceful transition for each child and family. This was amazingly undertaken as my dear friend (and spiritual sister), Beth, welcomed them each into her own preschool (which amazingly had just the perfect number of empty "slots" for each of my students AND had a change of location just at the perfect timing which enabled it all to work for each one!) I have helped my daughter update our family scrapbooks, "done" my 2008 taxes, found renters to take over the lease on my house, given one final (?) "JOY of Harmony Seminar" in the United States, and taken care of so many additional details. I have "wrapped up" relationships and lovingly and respectfully said my "good-byes."

It was an amazing few weeks. Although it would have been far easier (and more to my natural propensity) to have just GIVEN every THING away that I "owned" (and that had "attached" itself to me and my "life"), I held three garage sales, placed numerous ads, and through word-of-mouth was able to sell or give away everything I had accumulated in my (in August) 46 years that I had not as yet let go of--from piano, sectional, computer, bookshelves, books, TVs, kitchen appliances, preschool toys and materials, clothes, bedroom furniture, etc. etc. etc.

There were panicked pre-school parents and several others who expressed deep horror and sadness about my extricating myself from such an integral place in their lives. Others offered other perspectives of "fear" and "loss," some even trying to psychoanalyze my "irrational behavior." Many others expressed very warm and encouraging views, hoping to perhaps join with me in the near future. One even volunteered to rescue Krystal and raise her until I came back to my senses and the "land of the free". Each shared their own perspective. I listened to and validated each one, holding firmly to the light within myself. For in my own heart, unknown to my "rational" mind, came the deep and penetrating call that we would be all right and that I would continue to "feel" my way through the "unknowns" to the place where I could most serve and bless and, thus, find the greatest joy for myself and others.

Of most importance to me in this time of transition was strengthening the already deep bonds I had with my eight children who would not be accompanying me in this unprecedented move. How I thrilled as they each shared of their hearts and support for me. A couple gave a little grin as they slightly shook their heads and said, "That's just you, mom. You've always wanted to do something like this." I earnestly spent every moment I possibly could validating and encouraging them each in their own unique paths.

Yes, there were tears. Yes, we will miss each other. But, I KNOW, that "in the end" it's all good! I so look forward to the day that they will be more a part of my life and living (I believe) possibly closer to their own heart's compass. It will be of most interest to watch and support them--even from "afar" as they journey through their own paths.

Through the 12 or so weeks of transition, I had the sense that I was preparing for my own "death" and that I had been informed I had three months to live. What a tremendous opportunity I had: to take care of as many details and lovingly prepare those around me for my "transition." At times it felt surreal. Truly, I WAS "burying" the old me...the me that had tried to be "me" yet had also bought in to all the other programming of those in my life (parents, teachers, culture, religion, "experts," etc.) and had, in some ways, tried to live up to their expectations and requirements for "me," too. Yes, this person that "I" and others knew as "me" was being buried, her ashes spread or collected in a few "keepsake memorabilia urns" or embedded in a few hearts. The new, truer "ME" would be rising from those ashes and living a new life--this time TRULY ALIVE.

Yes, there were a few moments when I thought: "What AM I Doing???" I did shed several tears as I contemplated the lack of physical contact that I would have with so many dear to me. After all, there WERE innumerable unknowns and "what if's???". This truly was a venture with no "guide book" or any other "wise one" holding my hand. Though it would most definitely have been easier to have been going with another individual (or a group!) or without a young child looking up to me for her needs and guidance, I had the deep "knowing" that, at this leg of the journey, I must be going it "alone."

I also knew that even if I DID make a huge "mistake" (or a whole slew of them, for that matter!) that I would not really learn or grow by staying in relative security and by taking no real risks, never branching out into the unknown. I could learn from those "mistakes." AND, if I were to ignore the deep, warm calling of my heart to TAKE THIS NEXT STEP, I would never again know the peace that I had already established in my life, much less grow to a level of greater peace, joy and wisdom BEYOND.

Just a few days before my trip, I was offered an opportunity to rent an apartment in downtown Quito. I accepted it and am now renting a comfortable one-room apartment from a warm family who has opened their own home and hearts to Krystal and I, making our first few days here very pleasant while offering the help they could. I have felt deeply grateful and cognizant that this is one more area where "divine intervention" has been working behind the scenes.

Also, I had desired to keep using my car as long as I possibly could before my move. Although I did not officially "put it up for sell," one family expressed persistent interest in it and tried to get me to greatly reduce the price I had thought was very fair. I held firm, knowing that the sell of the car (as well as every other detail in my life) would weave itself together as I proceeded, not in haste or fear, but in confidence and peace. Two days before my departure, Marti, a dear friend, volunteered to handle the selling of my car. So, without any real attempt on my part, and in a matter of just a few days, she sold the car for me at a higher price than I was even asking and was able to get hundreds more for it than I was even expecting.

I have now been in Quito, Ecuador for exactly two weeks. Although we nearly missed our flight (we were "hanging out" in the airport with my daughter Alyssa and friend, Beth) because of a sudden swell in the lines through security and (unknown to us) early boarding, the flights themselves were largely smooth and uneventful. Krystal was amazingly calm and peacefully interested during both flights -- which encompassed all the day of the 20th. We arrived near midnight and, after pretty-much being waived through customs (because of the late hour and my young child?) we were greeted by a most welcome, well-written sign ("Kimberly Wallis") and smile on Ricardo's face (the before-unknown uncle of another new friend, Fernando).

Originally, I was told that I could have this apartment for a month. The morning after I got here, however, the family informed me that they had just talked with their mother/grandmother (the one who often used it) and told her about me. She had volunteered to stay with them in their home on her visits and so... the apartment was now mine for as long as I wanted it. They have truly opened up their hearts and their home, their dining room table, kitchen, time and lives to Krystal and I. I stand all amazed at the compassion and kindness shown to "strangers."

Krystal and I have taken many walks and trolley car rides throughout the town while we have attempted to get to know our new surroundings and its people and customs, set up our new "home" and supplying the simple "things" that would help our "home" be more accommodating: food, ultra-simple kitchen tools and supplies, etc. One of the large city parks that is thronged by many (vendors, musicians, students after school, lovers, etc.) is just a short ten minute walk away. I have thrilled to see Krystal rise in her ability to approach an unknown child with her attempts to speak a few words in a still-foreign tongue and find a friend to play with her on the playground.

I endeavor to learn the language as rapidly as possible. I believe that through this process (truly one of "immersion") and the study and attention (and music and children's stories with Krystal!) I will be able to. I have so very much to share! So much I want to lift and bless and become a true part of. One dear friend/brother wrote to me: "I feel that the miracle you seek (in communicating) lies within yourself. Love is a universal language, let it speak, let it shine." His words echoed my own heart and brought greater peace. Truly, I am one of these "little ones" that I seek to bless, too! I can be patient with myself in my learning process. My love and warm smiles DO shine and ARE felt by others. (Yes, I see the smiles and the rolled eyes, too, as I stammeringly attempt to negotiate purchases and communicate with my new friends... :-) )

It is impossible NOT to see the impoverishment in this city. Living in the middle of "down-town," we leave the ground-level door to our building (we are on the 4th floor/roof) and turn our heads either way and are immediately at different "shops." The beggars sit on the sides of the street. The drunk lies sleeping in his vomit. The young and old continually implore us to buy their wares (from "chicklet" [gum] to batteries to lottery tickets to the native fruits and foods...). Young babies sit in boxes at their mothers' sides, or wrapped in a sheet on their bodies. Toddlers play nearby. As we board buses and trolley cars to take us on more distant excursions, sellers also frequently board to bark their items to a captive audience. Always I desire to give my deep eye contact and encouraging word. Though I, at times, oblige and buy some small item or foodstuff, most often I quietly shake my head "No, gracias," feeling in my heart that perhaps my gift to this individual through my life, my book and its message will help more than the temporary 20 cents or so.

Although dramatically different from the relatively quiet neighborhood street of our former home in suburban Gilbert, Arizona, these people are every bit my "brothers and sisters" and endeavoring to live their lives as they see fit. People are, after all, people; unique, wonderful, each trying to fit in and find themselves as they can while caring for their continual needs.

Coincidentally (???) our home is very close to the main street that runs the entire length of the city and glues the city together, "10 de Agosto" --the day of the country's first cry for liberation--my birthday--August 10th.

Residents of Quito have remarked, confounded, that Krystal and I have not experienced one moment of altitude sickness. I have been told that for most all people, coming from the elevation we did, to this two-mile-high city, typically involves nausea and vomiting, disorientation and other difficulties. Likewise, we did fine with the air travel and didn't experience the typical "jet lag." I DID, a few days ago, however, suffer from too graciously accepting the offers to eat (too much and too often!) of the native food. Probably the greatest culprit was my enthusiastic indulgence in the sweet, caramelly concoction gifted to me by the man I'm renting from and indigenous of the Ecuadorian coast (his native land). YUM!!! It reminds me of the caramel toffee my grandmother would bring back from her visits to Canada-- just softer and with flakes of coconut. Well, the next day I paid for it (as I would have living in the states, too)! I was re-minded that my simple diet can take a LITTLE bit of "tweaking" now and again, but NOT a few meals all in a row!

The rooster on the roof next door (just outside our bedroom window) earnestly wakes us between 4:30 and 5:00 in the morning (depending on cloud cover and pollution ;-) ). I have also learned to listen intently to the "just right" sound of the shower indicating that I have set the faucet at the exact (split-hair) setting to give us luke-warm (sometimes even WARM! for a few seconds or minute!) water. The water everywhere else in the apartment is ALWAYS freezing cold. Though originally built with both hot and cold running water, I was told that the hot water pipes burst about ten years ago and they are unable to be fixed. Downtown, where we are, 90% of the buildings have running water. Outside of downtown, there are most that are not so fortunate.

Growing up, I was "programmed" by my family of origin that to be "dirty" was a disgusting and flagrant travesty. Oh, the pride! Oh, the lack of understanding! As Quito was far more "cool" than I had anticipated (being about 40-65 degrees fahrenheight inside our apartment at any given time--although outside is like a continual, likely-to-change-any-moment "spring") it took me several days of practicing to find my confidence with the shower faucet and be brave enough to give Krystal a shower. And, though I do not feel comfortable with how my hair looks or feels if I go more than a day without washing it, I have been very often glad that I have (many years ago) learned to "condition" my hair AFTER the shower is over, thus, cutting down a whole minute or two of possible cold water.

Because of all I had to weave together in those last few weeks of preparing for this move, I had not responded to emails and details of life that were not of utmost precedent. Though I endeavored to always flow through my experience in peace, there were many friends and relationships that I "put on hold" until I had a moment to think and feel my way through to respond. Then, being without the internet in this new venture for many days, it has for these last couple days, been most thrilling to be able to slowly find the time to begin to reconnect with each one.

This last week, I have spent considerable thought and time (and been most wondrously helped by Diego and Ricardo) and have found what I believe to be a wonderful opportunity for Krystal. Weekday mornings in a preschool called "The Sunrise House" will offer her an experience to socialize, make new friends, learn the spanish language and and culture while continuing to grow and thrive in ways that I can not offer myself. Then, in the afternoons (working around her naps when possible), we can venture together to volunteer in the orphanages, mingle with the indigenous, care for our home, or whatever. I am so glad for this opportunity for Krystal, AND look forward to having time open up for me to do those things of my heart.

I intend to continue my writings and feel my way into this new situation. Perhaps I will get a part-time job in a school. I hope to have as much opportunity to use my life in truly interacting with those who could benefit the most. I have just been introduced to a woman who is enthusiastically taking me to a couple of orphanages this coming Thursday morning. Another day this week I intend to find my way to the part of town where the "street children" are most prolific and personally begin to learn what I can of that situation.

Though I am still "feeling my way" through this transition and endeavoring to establish myself in this new culture as I see how I can best "LIVE" and help others, one thing, above any other, stands out to me the most:

I FEEL SOOOOOOO FREE!

I had had NO IDEA that each "thing" I had held on to as being "needed" and part of the Almighty "American Dream" was really one more "weight" on my shoulders, one more chain around me, locking me in a virtual "prison." I now feel so very liberated! Perhaps the greatest gift I have to offer the "poor" Ecuadorian people is that "IT'S ALL BACKWARDS!!!" "Don't listen to anyone else! YOU are not the poor! YOU are not slaves to society's requirements of "the Good Life"! By having nothing--YOU are unencumbered by STUFF! The body needs farrrrr less to live on and does amazingly better with only a small fruit or two a day! YOU are the RICH! Smile and FEEL Alive and you will begin to really LIVE and enJOY life! Or, as a friend recently said, "They are poor because they 'believe' they are poor because of the monetary image burned in their mind with materialism." Just maybe I can help someone else change their "vision," their mind and beliefs of "the good life."

Having lived now on both sides: coming from a "gorgeous" 7,000 square foot home on the hill with an acre of ground and mountain surrounding us (8 bedrooms, 7 toilets), proceeding through my divorce to smaller and smaller, less and less...I NOW realize that having little to nothing, with very little monetary obligations, relatively few bills, no stress, no time-demands...I FEEL SO FREE! I had heard it said that "The richest man is he who needs the least." I have proved it true for myself.

Now, while so much of the world is in a great economic frenzy; when gas is at an all-time-high, curtailing the ability for most to venture as far as desired; when the cost of "food" has skyrocketed; when that which is called "food" is raised on vastly nutritionally-deprived soil, blasted with toxic chemicals, the seeds-themselves genetically modified (a.k.a. destroyed from their former divinely created state), irradiated, heated so that many essential elements and catalysts are destroyed, gassed, wrapped in artificial environments of plastic, styrofoam and metals, transferred over hundreds or thousands of miles, processed beyond any recognition of their "nature-intended" state...; when people toil and struggle and stress and lose sleep over keeping (or finding) their jobs, paying their bills, keeping the kids full (and out of their hair); when all the above (and so much more) keep those "civilized" folk day-after-day digging their own graves while suffering from stress and depression, etc....

I can whistle and smile and giggle and LIVE. I can find and bring to the world the "true" ME. Perhaps I can even shine a light that will help another find THEIR "true" self. Oh...what...JOY. When people were behind-my-back discussing whether I was "brave," or crazy, I'm just grateful that I continued to place one foot in front of the other--to find...ME.

I have, indeed, been witnessing that LAUGHTER HAS NO ACCENT. My smiles, laughter, attempts to joke have increased the happiness of others around me. There are at those times no language barriers, no cultural differences. We are truly brothers and sisters.

What will tomorrow bring? What will I find to DO and BE??? I'll see.... And, hopefully, each day my "seeing" will be a little clearer, a little more "real."

Hopefully, at some point soon, I will be able to more fully introduce the already-established-and-waiting plan of the Worldwide United Foundation (www.wwunited.org) to help EACH person breathing have their own basic necessities and end their toil and struggle, thus empowering them to find THEMSELVES. Perhaps the more humble here in Ecuador will be receptive to its goal. Meanwhile, I share as much as I can with whomever seems ready (and in my halting tongue). My vision is firmly focused on a harmonious, joy-filled future FOR ALL! I will request that the cards, brochures and website be translated, published and available as soon as possible into spanish.

For any who may be interested, I desire to continue to share my learnings and experiences through my life's path. Tune in next time...:-)

Meanwhile, the lyrics to this song (and the link to the You Tube) express my heart at this point.

This is my new theme song: "I Want to Live" (by John Denver)

There are children raised in sorrow
On a scorched and barren plain
There are children raised beneath a golden sun
There are children of the water
Children of the sand
And they cry out through the universe
Their voices raised as one

I want to live I want to grow
I want to see I want to know
I want to share what I can give
I want to be I want to live

Have you gazed out on the ocean
Seen the breaching of a whale?
Have you watched the dolphins frolic in the foam?
Have you heard the song the humpback hears five hundred miles away
Telling tales of ancient history of passages and home?

I want to live I want to grow
I want to see I want to know
I want to share what I can give
I want to be I want to live

For the worker and the warrior the lover and the liar
For the native and the wanderer in kind
For the maker and the user and the mother and her son
I am looking for my family and all of you are mine

We are standing all together
Face to face and arm in arm
We are standing on the threshold of a dream
No more hunger no more killing
No more wasting life away
It is simply an idea
And I know its time has come

I want to live I want to grow
I want to see I want to know
I want to share what I can give
I want to be I want to live

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI-ABFXylJU

Hasta Manana,
Kimberly

To: LIFE, LIBERTY, and...HAPPINESS!

2008-07-28T18:48:00.002-07:00

July 4, 2008

To my children, the children and parents of my preschool, my friends, and all others that have shared my heart and life thus far in this world:

First of all, I’d like to, once again, share my deep and abiding love for each of you. Truly, my life has been greatly blessed because of all of my experiences and associations. This letter is my attempt to share some things that I have had come into my mind and heart, just over the last several days, prompting some unanticipated life changes.

Looking back over my life, I see that what is shortly to take place is really just the out-flowing of what I have been preparing for (without really knowing it) since I was a young child. My love for all people is immense. My desire to serve and bless the lives of everyone (particularly children and those with open-minds and hearts) has always been the source of my greatest joy.

Though my life appeared to make some drastic changes five years ago through my divorce from my twenty-year marriage, I believe it has always been moving and building toward the point where I find myself now. My eight living children from that marriage will always hold a sacred, cherished place in my heart and mind. However, they are in caring, capable hands. My love for each of them will always burn brightly, yet I have found that sometimes the greatest love is freely giving another their space for their own learning and growing experiences. I have confidence that their lives will manifest the opportunities and lessons that will be for the highest good of each of them, allowing them to, also, learn to bring forth their own unique joy.

I am now embarking on wrapping up all my dealings with this “world” as I have known it so far. I will be selling off and letting go of pretty much all the “stuff” that I still have in my possession. I will be closing down my preschool the end of the month of August and moving out of the lovely house that has been home to Krystal and me over the last 2 ½ years. Then, in the middle of September, she and I will board a plane with a few suitcases and head for the next chapter in our lives—living among some of the “least among us” in Ecuador.

How long we will stay, where we will go from there, is uncertain at this point; perhaps a few weeks, perhaps for the rest of our lives. As of now, there appears to be passport restrictions of less than 90 days. Will opportunities open up? Will a way be provided to extend that time? Will our journey take us from there to another (currently unknown) location? Or, will that time be sufficient to fulfill the calling of my heart? I don’t know. I do know, however, that I will freely offer my love, vision and assistance to those in need wherever I am.

Although the scenery and climate is supposed to be some of the most beautiful on the planet, there is a tremendous poverty rate among the people in Ecuador. Orphans, street children, homeless, unemployed abound. I have a friend visiting there now who reported to me a few nights ago that, although there are modern malls and many “conveniences” (mostly due to those who are in Ecuador for the oil situation), just even feet away from these are the “poorest of the poor.” He told me of those little ones of even four and five years old with no one and no where to go.

These little ones sleep in the streets, waking in the mornings to scavenge and find or make whatever they can to hopefully sell in order to pay for an egg or rice to keep them alive another day. I weep and tears flow freely as I write this and ponder on their lives. My friend, Fernando, also quickly reported that these were some of the most happy children he has ever seen, expecting and demanding nothing from others but finding every bit of happiness and reason to laugh and smile they can for and from within themselves.

I have found tremendous joy in my life in teaching, helping, and blessing the lives of my “own” children and others through my various schools, classes and many other opportunities. Some of my greatest joy has come when I have seen the “light” go on in parents’ eyes and hearts of how to joyfully raise healthy, happy children and interact with them in ways that empower everyone for the long run.

Several weeks ago, nearing completion of one of the books I am writing, “The JOY of Harmony~How to Joyfully LIVE Your Life…and…How to Happily Raise Happy Children!” I seemed to come to some kind of a standstill. Having plenty more to do to finish putting it together, my desires to write seemed to be put on hold for the time being.

Then, just a few days ago, my mind began opening up and burning in this new direction. Perhaps my experiences among the Ecuadorian people will help me to further fine-tune the principles that I have sought, learned, and put into practice that have allowed me to be a witness to such miracles in the children and others I associate with.

Again, where my life will continue to lead, where I will go from there, I can’t even guess. It is likely that I will help in orphanages. I might open a school of some kind. Perhaps I will make and sell my “green drinks” and smoothies. Perhaps I will do nothing more than walk among the poor and bind up their hearts as I laugh with and interact with them. Whatever I find to do to sustain us and fulfill our inner joy in life, I am fairly sure it will involve children and parents, music and laughter. All I know is that life is a grand adventure; love IS the (only) answer; the injunction to “do unto others as you would have others do unto you”—always—is the only road to true and lasting peace.

Krystal’s nature seems to be very similar to my own. I have no doubts that this new chapter in each of our lives will bring us both great joys, heartache, tax our physical, mental and emotional boundaries, and give us many further lessons in loving, teaching and truly serving. Perhaps it will open up further the implementation of the Worldwide United Foundation (wwunited.org), thus helping to end all poverty, loneliness, stress and despair—for every one—for ever.

Throughout my brief 46 years on this planet I have filled my life, mind and heart with poignant stories of others who have gone before me who have “done the impossible.” Many were scorned and chalked up by all others are “crazy,” insane,” “off their rocker.” Yet always, often unknown by others, each person who has taken up their inner charge to follow that divine directive from within, against all apparent odds, has changed at least themselves. Sometimes they have been led to bless the lives of others. Often their courage, that appeared to masquerade as insanity, was a catalyst for others to live their own lives without fear, finding their own unique joy within themselves.

I again extend my enduring love and gratitude for each of you. If you have desires to stay close and would like to be kept abreast of what we are experiencing, please let me know. I am attempting to get my website working and up-to-date (loveistheanswer.info). Though about to be renovated, feel free to check in periodically starting in the next couple weeks. I will attempt to open up and keep a blog going. There is some internet availability within the larger cities of Ecuador. Hopefully, I will be able to utilize it to keep in contact with those desiring to.

I plan to fly in to Quito on the 20th of September and see what we find. I do have an Ecuadorian contact who has volunteered to pick us up from the airport and help us to find initial lodging. It will probably not be too long before Krystal is able to speak fluent Spanish. I’m sure she’ll be helping me in my language efforts.

I will be selling off and attempting to raise as much money as I can from the “stuff” I have now. Although I have freely given much away throughout my life (even having a huge “free sale” with a friend a couple years ago to raise awareness for the W.U.F.) I will now, however, attempt to get the best prices I can on everything left. If you may have any interest in any of my furnishings, appliances, toys, games, etc. please let me know soon. (There is not much that can fit into a couple suitcases and a box or so. J ) Also, if anyone has an interest in a beautifully running, nearly like-new condition 2005 Nissan Sentra SE-R (loaded) with about 16,000 miles on it, I will need to sell it before I move.

To the many thousands of empty stomachs and arms of my new continent, I will bring my love, vision and hope. As much as I have benefited from my interaction with those here in my “native-land,” I am seeing that my true love, and perhaps my greatest ability to help, is among the “least among us.” There have been many who have gone before me, utilizing no computer, no white board and markers, no manipulatives, books, toys, not even a paper and pencil. Indeed, these have changed hearts, minds, and left a legacy of love. Perhaps in my own small way, I can help bless another heart.

May we each find our own great joy in life, whatever that may be for each wonderfully unique one of us. May depression, loneliness, judgment, hunger and war find their swift end. May we each find the smiles, giggles and laughter of our own true nature that has been (often) held imprisoned within ourselves. This is my hope. This is my joy. This will be my dying breath.

My love forever,
Kimberly

P.S. If there is any interest, I may plan to go ahead and do another seminar or two before I leave.

P.P.S. As I don’t have email addresses for everyone that has had a part in my life and may have some interest in what I am now making happen, please feel free to pass this letter on to others.

Keep Smiling! :-)

It Couldn't Be Done
Edgar Guest

Somebody said that it couldn't be done,
But he with a chuckle replied
That "maybe it couldn't," but he would be one
Who wouldn't say so till he'd tried.
So he buckled right in with the trace of a grin
On his face. If he worried he hid it.
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn't be done, and he did it.

Somebody scoffed: "Oh, you'll never do that;
At least no one ever has done it;"
But he took off his coat and he took off his hat,
And the first thing we knew he'd begun it.
With a lift of his chin and a bit of a grin,
Without any doubting or quiddit,
He started to sing as he tackled the thing
That couldn't be done, and he did it.

There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
There are thousands to prophesy failure;
There are thousands to point out to you, one by one,
The dangers that wait to assail you.
But just buckle in with a bit of a grin,
Just take off your coat and go to it;
Just start to sing as you tackle the thing
That "cannot be done," and you'll do it.