"Today we dance with the Angels round all the empty tombs in our lives celebrating transformation." — Joy Cowley
Having met Joy Cowley (ONZ, DCNZM, OBE) right here in Whanganui some years ago I was delighted by this woman. Now in her 83rd year, she is in my humble opinion, one of our best New Zealand authors. Joy Cowley is well known for her children's fiction, including the popular series of books Mrs Wishy-Washy. I enjoy her writing, especially her poetry and church service resources. My quote this week is from a call to worship of a congregation here in Whanganui over Easter, the bit that influenced this column, "dancing around the empty tombs in our lives".
Some years ago, I recognised that if I wanted to move forward in my life, I must firstly be honest with myself. Another way of putting it, is to get tired of our own "bullsh*t". I needed to change my thinking.
I remember when I began a new journey, I felt frightened, messed up, I was afraid of failure and I fell short many times. It took time to change my thinking. I always seemed to be one step away from success and even a totally different life. I kept going and my Angels reminded me often why I started this new journey. It was not to be perfect, but to transform my old patterns and let go of the thoughts I no longer need. In my body I carried untruths that challenged my health. My Angels stayed with me and helped me find the power to transform the quality of my life. As Arthur Burt, who lived until he was 102 said, "Nothing happens until the pain of remaining the same outweighs the pain of change."
To change ourselves it is important to forgive those who had done things we felt were wrong and to forgive ourselves for our mistakes. Next, we need to undergo a transformation of consciousness, to stop thinking about ourselves and our own self-preservation, instead to think of others. Find people who are great and successful and see the possibility of success by walking beside them. Always remember that everything we are seeking is already inside of us.
Have a great week my friends and column followers. Arohanui.
Shirley-Joy
