Thursday, December 31, 2020

A Masked Visitor: An Angel Message

When I sat down to put on my socks this morning, what a surprise to see this masked visitor from the window.  Hungry, he scoured the ground for sunflower seeds that had spilled out of the bird feeder.  Since raccoons are nocturnal, his appearance in the sunlight made him a good year-end messenger.


In Animal-Speak, raccoon's appearance signifies: "that transformation comes from putting on a proper mask.  Masking is going on for good or for bad.  Disguising intentions may be necessary."

The raccoon seemed like an appropriate animal guide to appear on the last day of 2020.

Wishing you a Happy 2021, with the Angels.  The best is yet to come.

 Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

 


 

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

Hidden Potential: An Angel Message

Christmas cactus were featured at the orchid warehouse last week, all holding a promise of blooming.  My sweet step-father Bob had such a green thumb; his front yard was hedged with beautiful fragrant rose bushes.   Once he gave me a Christmas cactus, but it never did bloom.  The idea that a cactus could bloom was remotely possible to my mindset.  

Fondly remembering Bob, I looked over the many potted Christmas cactus for sale.  I picked the one with the most red tipped ends, in hopes of increasing any success.  

I was not disappointed.  The next day the first tight little bud produced a single red flower.  I thought that was it.  But it was only the beginning...

To my surprise, an expansive shoot of red petals popped open from the first flower.  When the show was over the center looked like a long tapered white candle of light! Soon, the other little buds began bursting with their own light show.  

The light of Christmas brings hope.  Hope that even in the most difficult and desolate conditions, like the dormant Christmas cactus, we, too, have hidden potential.  A light within waiting to blossom and shine out in the world.    

Remember God loves you.  I'm so thankful for the reminder to not judge by outer appearances...what is hidden will be revealed.

Love and joy,


Rae Karen

Friday, December 25, 2020

Merry Christmas filled with Grace

 


 Heavy winds gusted here last night bringing rain.  The tall palms swayed low, the temperature dropped, and winter was suddenly upon us, closing the door on a warm summer Christmas Eve. 

This morning was met with a brilliant sunrise and bright blue sky in spite of the dreary forecast.  Although Christmas may look very different this year for most of us, absent from the warm closeness of friends and family, the Christmas spirit is ever-present. The JOY of Christmas is in the heart. With God's amazing grace, we can reflect on the year and find the hidden blessings in each offset. God is Love.

Wishing you all peace, joy, love and grace.

 Merry Christmas!


Rae Karen

 

Monday, December 21, 2020

The 2020 Winter Solstice Today: An Angel Message

 

Today we welcome the Winter Solstice. Archangel Gabriel is the governor of the winter season.  His name means "God is my strength".  Archangel Gabriel is the heavenly Annunciator who brings glad tidings of new life. He was the angel who announced to Mary the role she would play in birthing the Christ child. According to scripture, he also appeared to elderly Zechariah announcing God's plan for his barren wife Elizabeth to conceive a baby. Their precious child, John, was the forerunner, preparing the way for Christ Jesus, the Light of the World. 

Archangel Gabriel helps to stir a greater appreciation for the divinity within each of us as the angel of Love and Hope.
The winter solstice is a time to kindle our inner Light in spite of the outer darkness. By spending quiet time in contemplation and meditation, we can awaken to our true divinity.

December 21st is the shortest day and the longest night of the year.  This winter solstice of 2020 comes with a brilliant light.  Tonight a "Christmas Star" conjunction can be seen in the southwestern sky. Two planets, Jupiter and Saturn, will have their finest conjunction in hundreds of years.  The two will be so close as to appear as one brilliant Christmas Star.

During this holy time of year, the entire angelic hierarchy draws close to the earth, basking the world in rays of divine love. This celestial outpouring brings an expansion of consciousness beyond the physical world for those who will still their minds and attune to it.

Happy Winter Solstice to all as we welcome Archangel Gabriel.

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

 

 

(Archangel Gabriel Artwork by Nanette Crist Johnson)

 


Thursday, December 17, 2020

On the Outside Looking In: An Angel Message

Instead of opening an advent calendar door, it's been interesting to watch what animals may pop up to celebrate the coming of Christmas.  Yesterday was a squirrelly day.  It began early in the morning when a young gray squirrel struck a pose outside the window.  Clinging to the tall tree trunk, instead of being right-side-up, he was unpredictably spontaneous.  Upside-down, stretched to the max, he looked at me with a nut in his mouth.  

Lately, a family of playful young squirrels has been busy, scampering about the yard, burying their acorns.  Sometimes it's hard to tell if they are looking to dig up the old, or plant the new.   Squirrels have a keen sense of smell and can eventually find their cache if they forget where they hid them. 

Later, something amusing happened, a unique hide-and-seek game.  

A little squirrel bravely came up to the sun-room slider.  On the narrow rocky ledge, he stood on his haunches, determined to look inside the house.  His little paw was raised against the glass as he curiously peered inside.  Wide-eyed, he stared up at the Christmas tree, wondering how did THAT grow in there.  An added touch is a bushy life-like squirrel ornament on a branch, a gift from a friend in Christmases past.

It's not everyday a squirrel peeps in your window, so I took the hint and looked up the symbolism.  Squirrel teaches about the need for balance between work and play.  It's important to prepare for the future, but don't get lost in the preparations and miss out on the spontaneity of  today.  Now is the time to find ways to gather and to gift. 

His playful curiosity brought a helpful reminder; it was time to fill up the empty bird feeder.  

  


Love and peace,


Rae Karen


 


Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Inspiration in the Wings: An Angel Message

 

Yesterday the spirit of Christmas filled the air. After a drive to the post office to send out some holiday cheer, an angel prompt guided,  Go shop for stocking stuffers for friends.  

Rolling my cart down the aisle at Tuesday Morning, a surprise was waiting in the wings.  A pair of writer cherubs caught my attention on a top shelf at the back of the store.  It was just what I needed.  Feather quills in hand, journals open--listening and waiting for inspiration.  

 The store manager happened to come out of the backroom, and saw me admiring the two.  

Which angel do you like? I asked her.  

She studied the celestial pair for a moment, and pointed to the cherub in my hand. (The angel with her finger by her mouth, pondering what to write next.) "They're like book-ends." She smiled.   

Undecided, I looked back at the other cherub high on the shelf, her little face filled with divine inspiration.  It was hard to decide. 

"You know, they're 60% off, the manager smiled, checking the discount list.   

At that affordable price, I could get both!  Smiling, I thanked her for being my angel.  

She went on to say, yesterday a woman had come into the store looking for angels, but there were none to be found.  So these two were meant for you.

Now with my writing cherubs on the desk, I'm grateful for the inspiration to keep writing.   Be willing to open up and listen.  

We all experience these angelic touches that sneak up on us and fill our souls with delight. A loving reminder that there is more going on in the wings, so keep the faith, do our best, and share the love. Even though we do not see angels, there is no doubt that these loving messengers from God are here with us along the way, guiding, protecting, inspiring and loving us through it all.  We all need encouragement, and with a little willingness, we can help to build each other up during these challenging days.  The best is yet to come.

Enjoy your day with the Angels.

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

 

 

Monday, December 14, 2020

Last but not least: An Angel Message

The last shall be first...

Remember the slow-growing brown amaryllis bulb that seemed like a dud?  All three plants had been planted at the same time in early November.  But this one (a striped variety) appeared to be cold and aloof to any loving care to help it grow up and bloom.

A lesson was unfolding about the wisdom of divine timing, and the power of faith when there is no evidence to keep on going.  The slow-growing floral apostle, dwarfed day-by-day, could have lost hope if comparing its success to those around her.  A lowly stub, alone, in the shadows of a rich red profusion of trumpeting velvety flowers in the pots on either side of it could be challenging. It could be easy to lose hope. Why not give up, it's not going to happen to me. I don't have what it takes... 

 Rather than quit, the faithful bulb teacher quietly worked within herself, doing her best one day at a time.  A work in progress, steadily her stalk grew stronger, rising up. 

Then, something amazing happened.  A rapid robust acceleration brought her to new heights, high above the other beautiful trumpeters.

There in that expansive view, she had room to stretch out and bloom.  Triumphant, orange-and-white starry petals opened wide, crowning the festive Amaryllis flower-box with a gift of Christmas JOY!    

I'm thankful for the lessons from the amaryllis this season.  The angelic reminder not to give up, no matter what.  For everything there is a season, so keep on having faith and doing the inner work, the best is yet to come.  We are all flowers in the Master's Garden.

 
In the Victorian Age, an amaryllis indicated success after a struggle. It is a flower that represents a job well done.  :-D

Love, joy, and peace,


Rae Karen

Sunday, December 13, 2020

Guest Who Came By for Breakfast? Angel Message

 This morning a foggy mist blanketed the winter sky.   Elliot and I skipped our usual routine and had a bowl of warm oatmeal before meditating.  Creatures of habit, we were enjoying breakfast when I happened to look up.  

This young deer was grazing in the grass outside the sun-room.   Not wanting to disturb the tranquility of the morning meal, no attempt was made for a photo.  The gentle deer stayed so long, gracing the lawn with its beauty, that it seemed like a sign to get my camera.  If it were meant to be, he'd still be there when I returned.  

But he was gone, leaving the blessing of his visit.   

After breakfast, during our meditation, an angel prompted, open your eyes.   I was glad I listened. 

 Isn't he beautiful?

With the camera at hand, a couple of photos were easily taken from the window to share the angel message with you. 

When a deer appears, it is a time to be gentle with yourself and others.  A new innocence and freshness is about to be awakened or born.  There is going to be a gentle, enticing lure of new adventure.  Some questions to ask yourself:  Are you trying to force things?  Are others?  Are you being too critical and uncaring of yourself?  When deer show up there is an opportunity to express gentle love that will open new doors to adventure for you.  (Animal-Speak, T. Andrews)

Thursday, December 10, 2020

An Angel Lesson from the Amaryllis

The angels brought a lesson on not becoming discouraged when things seem to be at a standstill.  The three amaryllis bulbs planted in early November appeared to be duds.  But it turned out, that below the surface, beautiful flowers were developing in an amazing way.  Meanwhile the unsightly onion-like bulbs planted in fertile soil, were faithfully watered, but day after day, the stubby brown tip of the bulbs stuck up from the dirt, with no apparent change in sight.  It would be easy to get discouraged.

Finally, when a tiny green shoot peeked out of one bulb--it was so insignificant, the whole effort seemed doomed.  Yet at that stage, if one were to look deeper, under the soil, you would see how the intelligent bulb is secretly making preparations for victory.  It is building an extensive and strong root system to support the upcoming sudden rapid growth of the tall sturdy stem, with its large red trumpeting flowers.  

Once the groundwork is ready, everything speeds up. The stalks grow tall with a joyful explosion of rich velvety red blossoms that appear in a matter of days.  Turns out, the ugliest bulb in the pot put on quite a show.  Its two strong green stalks were anchored to support eight wonderful big red blossoms.   While the slowest growing, shortest plant has yet to bloom, it now towers above the other two.   

Appearances are deceiving--that's why we can't rely on them.  

Prayer is like that at times.  Sometimes our prayers may seem as if nothing is happening.   Praying each day, with no outward sign of progress, we might feel like giving up.  Take heart, and remember the lesson of the amaryllis.  When our thoughts are rooted in God, don't think for a minute that nothing significant is in the works.  Although hidden, BIG changes are steadily taking place within.  Our understanding and perspective are silently being transformed.  Inner spiritual growth is actively at work for our highest good, for the renewal of our mind.  The end result is our blossoming realization that what God gives is truly ours, a gift of eternal love and life through Christ.

The Christmas flower is appropriately named for Mary, (the lily) the fairest flower in God's garden, who pondered many things in her heart as God performed a mighty work within her.   

"Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law."  (Psalm 17:7) 

Enjoy your day with the Angels. 

Love and peace,


Rae Karen





Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Heavenly Snowmen: An Angel Message

 The chill in the air is a welcomed relief, adding a touch of winter to the holiday season.   At a neighborhood garage sale, this cheerful wintry home-made sign brought a smile.

Snowmen

           fall from

                       heaven

                                  unassembled.

 Isn't that a wonderful thought...

A sky full of  white fluffy snowflakes tumble down from heaven, waiting for someone to bring them to life.

 Many warm memories of childhood winters were spent in the snow--building snowmen, sledding down the steep neighborhood hill, or having a friendly snowball fight with friends or my two younger brothers. Afterwards, our rosy cheeks tingled from the cold as we kicked off our clunky rubber boots on the mat by the front door.  Then warmed up with a cup of cocoa Mom had ready to serve on the stove.  

I've always loved the snow, and miss it here in Florida.  Recently something interesting resurfaced about snowflakes in a book, Snowflake Bentley, Man of Science, Man of God. Published in the late 1970's, it's the life story of William A. Bentley, who lived from 1865-1931, in Vermont and spent his life studying snowflakes. Here's what he had to say:

 "To be perfectly symmetrical, snowflakes must be outside the range of influence of other snowflakes.  When two snowflakes strive equally to occupy the same place at the same time, neither can have it, and both will be imperfect.  Snowflakes do not bloom into full beauty at once.  They grow, beginning with a tiny nucleus, and developing around this nucleus a geometrical pattern of amazing regularity. He found that they grow in changing habits. The finest snowflakes were not the largest."

 No two snowflakes were ever alike.  "Each snowflake is as different from its fellow as we human beings are from our fellows,"  Bentley told his mother one evening.  "But the comparison changes there.  For each snowflake, if allowed freedom to develop alone, is perfect according to its individual plan. It is one of nature's miracles."  

 "Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow?" Job 38:22

Wishing you peace, joy, and love,


Rae Karen








Wednesday, December 2, 2020

Out in the Night: An Angel Message

 

On Monday night, as the sky began to darken, my inner child had a bright idea.  Take a drive to see the Christmas lights in the neighborhood.  So out into the night, Elliot and I hopped in the car for an adventure in wonderland.  It brought back forgotten memories of childhood when the family would pack into the car after dinner to see the glow of Christmas decorations.   

It was the majestic golden deer, with large antlers, that I'd seen standing tall in the sunlight that day that inspired our outing.  I wanted to see him sparkling in light near the entrance to the community.    

 

Deer also had crossed my path earlier that day.   On a spur of the moment trip to the store for red tree bows, I discovered the last deer ornament, a remnant from a Sunday sale.  

 

Deer always hold a special place in my heart...

I fondly recall the many white-tailed deer that came at night to eat the apples on the old tree when we lived on the farm in Virginia.  A deer sighting stirs my heart.  After all, don't the reindeer guide Santa's sleigh to bring Christmas gifts.  

The holiday sights in the neighborhood were festive, but more was to come.  As we turned for home, driving down the long narrow road, what to my wondering eyes should appear...  

Not one, but two small brown deer, they pranced in the headlights to bring holiday cheer.  

In tandem, they crossed the road before us, dashing through our yard.  Such a magical moment, we paused, but there was more to come.

 An angel thought whispered, Wait, there is one more.   

And, what joy when mother deer soon appeared out of the night, and followed her young fawns safely back to the forest.     

Only twice have I seen deer on the property, so the visit seemed significant.  So I revisited the symbolism of deer.
 

"If you encounter a deer, it wants to advise you to approach your life with precision but without pursuing rigid goals.  Turn over the guidance of your life exclusively to your higher self and follow its impulses with a great deal of dynamic energy.  There are certain times for certain steps in your life...* "

When a deer appears, it also may symbolize the lure to adventures.    I was happy the Christmas deer had called us out in the night.

Enjoy the day with your Angels. 

Peace and joy,


Rae Karen

 

  


 

 





Ref:  *Animal Messengers Regula Meyer

**Animal-Speak, Pocket Guide, Ted Andrews

Monday, November 30, 2020

The Missing Donkey: An Angel Message

We can all recall times when someone or something keeps coming to mind. Like a cameo appearance on the movie screen of your life, a thought stirs you to take an action.  It could be to send an email, or make a phone call, or say a silent prayer, or to go somewhere. The first time it catches your attention, you may be in the middle of a task. Then, over the next several days, it will gently knock on the door of your conscience, until you realize this is an angel thought, pure intuition of Divine Love offering an opportunity to be a blessing.   

On the eve of Thanksgiving, an angel message prompted, visit the orchid farm.  Our donkey friend had been coming to mind for several days.  Welcoming an outing, I grabbed some carrots from the fridge. The last time we'd seen Allahambra, he appeared to be feeling under the weather.  

Anxious to see him again, we hurried to his corral.  But it had been plowed clean.  Bails of hay were lined up by the fence.  

A stillness was in the air, as we called to him.  Sometimes he stays back in the woods, and trots forward to greet us.  But this time, there was no sign of that lovable Jerusalem donkey.    

We walked further down the field, to see if he was at another pen where we had last seen him.  But no bright eyed donkey answered the call to come get a carrot.   A pair of emus, in the next pen, stared when I asked them what happened to their donkey neighbor.   Belching grunts offered no clue as I watched one of the large ostrich-like birds sip water from a bucket.   

With no sign of our friend, Elliot softly asked if I wanted to go inside the orchid warehouse to find out about him. But something told me to just let it be.   If we needed to know, someone would appear to tell us, I told him. Maybe that Jerusalem donkey had finished his earthly work and gone home. 

 With these thoughts, we walked back down toward his old corral for one last try. 

When I looked up, I could hardly believe my eyes.  It was like a mirage. Allahambra was standing in the middle of his cleared lot, with a quizzical look.  Why all the fuss? 

My heart jumped for joy, in that moment of resurrection energy.  And, that sweet Prince, kissed my hand, after chomping down on the carrots I fed him.   I smiled, realizing that I'd lost all fear of feeding him up close and personal.   After all who can resist such an adorable loving face? 

At home, I looked up the donkey symbolism again.  "Be wise but humble in a new opportunity. People are noticing you, so you do not need to promote yourself.  Stubbornness can hinder."   If you're reading this now, the message is for you. 

 

 We all need each other now more than ever.  Is there someone the angels are encouraging you to reach out and bless today?

Love and peace,


Rae Karen



(Ref. donkey, Animal-Speak Pocket Guide by T. Andrews)

Friday, November 27, 2020

The Gift of the Moon: An Angel Message

Sometimes an angel comes so close that you can feel a slight brush of her wings touching your heart in the dark.  I had one of those moments last Friday night.  Unable to get to sleep, my emotions were churning, and my stomach was heavy.  I tiptoed out in the living room to rest on the old floral sofa by the window.

For some reason, I found myself facing west rather than east like I usually do.  A creature of habit, I found it odd.  Stretched out on the comfy sofa, the wisdom of that choice soon became apparent. A cloud lifted, and a bright yellow light shone through the treetops in the pasture. The last time I'd seen the moon she was crescent-shaped, hanging like a fingernail in the sky. Lately time has been elusive but I knew a sliver of the moon couldn't be a bright yellow light.  Watching the sky, I said prayers, and before long the light grew brighter.  Then, there she was-- my old friend, Bella Luna, shining like a big golden smile in the dark!  A half-moon full of radiant light    What joy...as it appeared to be an angel message to not despair during these dark times, but to have faith and keep on trusting that there is more than you can know at present.  

The next morning, what a surprise, to stumble upon The Moon Fairy by David Delamare, at the local farmers' market.   A comforting keepsake of the healing presence of the angels, and the message not lose faith in the dark.      

We thank the angels for their tireless devotion to help humanity accelerate our spiritual growth.  The best is yet to come.

Love and peace,


Rae Karen



Wednesday, November 18, 2020

A Wood of Art: An Angel Message

 Last Saturday at the Farmers' market in town, this lovely country scene, etched on an ordinary log had been seasoned by a wood-burning artisan many years ago.  The old stone house, with the large tree in the front yard, was a nostalgic heart call of a simpler time.  The rustic covered bridge in the bend of the road, spoke of unseen adventures up ahead in nature. 

A one-of-a-kind bargain for $15, the flea market vendor said it had been a door stopper. 



With such an appreciation for the life of trees, the warmth of the log reminded me of the afterlife in some respects.  The tree lives on by the hand of the master craftsman who creatively carves out a wonderful new purpose.  I'd like to think that our lives are like that...every trial, every heartache, every suffering is tenderly etched in what becomes a beautiful work of art, yet to be seen.  In the end, when the ordinary board is turned over, behold we find our life has been a masterpiece in the Hand of the Creator.


I'm so thankful for these loving touches the angels bring into our awareness.  They always arrive just when needed the most, and inspire our footsteps to walk on and leave a path in which others may follow.  

Love and joyful blessings,


Rae Karen


Monday, November 9, 2020

Unfolding Like An Amaryllis: An Angel Message

Amaryllis bulbs have always been a favorite at this time of the year.  Several weeks ago, while shopping for flowers, a large skid filled with boxes of red amaryllis caught my eye.  Why not gift our friends with an amaryllis to brighten their holidays.  In a hurry, I was so taken by the red lion amaryllis blooming on the box, I missed the word BULB KIT.    

Back at home, I stored the boxes in the laundry room, planning to deliver them in December.  This morning, an angel thought suggested,  open one up and take a look inside.  I was glad that I listened.  

The plastic pot inside had instructions.  Yep, it was a kit.  A dry soil patty had to be soaked in a container.  But to my dismay, the large flower bulb looked more like a rotted onion.  A white stem peeked out of the brown bulb head, in need of light. Reminiscent of making mud pies, I began stirring the soaking dirt patty until it turned to pliable soil, just moist enough to do the job. My kitchen had all the ambiance of a laboratory experiment gone awry, but it was fun. 

While working the dirt, I got to thinking about faith.  That unattractive bulb didn't look like it had any potential on the outside.  It could never reach its potential as a radiant flower unless it was planted in soil and received light, warmth, and water to grow to maturity.  I could see that like the unfolding amaryllis bulb, our individual spiritual completeness unfolds gradually and effortlessly. We blossom through spiritual understanding, impelled by the support of God's warm embracing love, and the sustaining power of His living waters.  

Our spiritual growth isn't something outside of us that we need to acquire, rather it already is within each of us to be a perfect complete expression of God's Love.  

Now that the first amaryllis bulb was tucked in loamy pot in the sunlight, inspiration came to give the other two bulbs a helping hand.      

Later, I looked up the symbolism.  In the Victorian Age, the symbol of the amaryllis was, "success after a struggle"  or "a  job well done".  When gifted to an artist, it was a way to encourage creativity.  

I'm so thankful that the angels are here to give us a helping hand.  They love, comfort, guide and protect, eager for us to become all God intended us to be.   

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen



Friday, November 6, 2020

The Eagle Landed: An Angel Message

 


This afternoon, while taking a break at the lake, Elliot and I were munching on pistachio nuts while sitting in the car.  For a minute, I couldn't believe my own eyes.  Was a bald eagle really flying over the lake?  Something I've never seen in all the years we've been coming to the lake. In that special moment, a breath  of expansive freedom rushed through me.  The majestic wingspan, white crowned head, and yellow beak, flying in our direction sure looked like a bald eagle, the symbol of America. 

A professional photographer was sitting by the lake, his high powered camera mounted on a tripod.  The magnificent bird flew by quickly, leaving room for doubt, and no time for me to get out my camera.  It all  happened so fast that soon it was out of sight.  Curious, we called out to the photographer, had it been an eagle?!

"Do you want to see it?" He offered.  Gladly we accepted the invitation.

So enjoy this peek at Keith Gardner's bald eagle. Isn't it beautiful?  The four-year old bald eagle had landed on the limb of a nearby tree, before taking flight again. It was a newcomer to him as well.  Keith has a wonderful portfolio of bird photos on Facebook. The one shown here of the eagle should be posted soon.

I looked up the symbolism of the eagle.  "Spirit vision and healing surround you.  Look at things from a new perspective.  Take a different path. Trust what you are becoming."   (Animal Speak, T. Andrews)

 The eagle had landed.  Prayers are needed for America to heal, and become one nation, under God, indivisible,with liberty and justice for all.  

Love and peace,


Rae Karen


 

 

 


 

 

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2020

A Starry Surprise: An Angel Message

Outside the living window this morning, I was surprised by an unusual sight. In a star cluster of rich pink blossoms, a perky little pentas seedling greeted me.  Somehow the brave little volunteer had bloomed in a rocky place--between the gray landscaping boulders.  Pink is the color of divine love.   Her joyful countenance beckoned me outside into the fresh cool air.  I marveled how the morning's warm rays lovingly touched the crown of her radiant pink stars.  Standing tall in the sunshine of a new day, the little pentas had made it ..against all odds.

 Upon closer inspection, I could see the rain-stained FAITH garden plaque had been part of the bigger picture.  Faith grows in a garden... 



And, these star clustered flowers make a perfect resting place for butterflies and bees, both symbols of doing the impossible.

I was thankful for the angel message to listen and trust...even in the tightest of circumstances, all things are possible with God.  So keep having faith...and stay in the Light.

Love and peace,


Rae Karen



Monday, November 2, 2020

More Tortoises: An Angel Message

 Last week, while eating lunch in the sun-room, I looked up in time to catch sight of  what appeared to be a large domed shell steadily moving out in the sun-lit pasture.   Seeing Timothy the gopher tortoise was just the boost needed at the moment.  His hollow under the tree had been quiet all summer, and we wondered if our good neighbor had moved to greener pastures.  With the field recently mowed short, he can cover his territory more freely now.  Later that afternoon, to my delight, another large tortoise appeared at the same time as Timothy.   They were about the same size, and each one was diligently going about their own business in opposite directions, but co-existing in peace.

Tortoise is a symbol of taking things slow and steady under pressure.  Right now there are a multitude of pressures we're all dealing with here on earth. Many opportunities that can bring a gift of spiritual growth if we choose to learn from the lessons that are presented.  They force us to come up higher in consciousness and reveal a part of us that is eternal, and untouched by anything external. 

More tortoise energy was in the air.  On Saturday, at the farmers' market in town, BIG BOY, the 20-year gopher tortoise, was there with his mate, Prasilia.  They enjoyed a lunch of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers, in the company of curious admirers.  

With all the tortoise energy to share, I looked up the meaning once more. "Pressures are easing, and although movement is slow, it is steady.  Things will happen in the time and manner best for you.  Focus on essentials."

Unseen help is with us, the human race, even though not visible one can experience the loving influence of angelic presence in the midst of our darkest trials.  Love will find a way. 

With love and blessings,


Rae Karen


Animal-Speak Pocket Guide Ted Andrews

Sunday, November 1, 2020

All Saints' Day - November 1


Today is All Saints' Day (also called All Hallows) celebrated on November 1st each year.  In the Catholic tradition, it honors all the Saints, but especially those who are not recognized on other days of the calendar year.  With the New Testament meaning, saints include all Christian people of every time and place.  Although, not a Catholic, I join in honoring all those devoted Saints who brought the Light into the darkness, and with gratitude, remember St. Francis, Patron Saint of Animals. 

Prayer of St. Francis


Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.
Where there is injury, let me sow pardon.
Where there is doubt, let me sow faith.
Where there is despair, let me sow hope.
Where there is darkness, let me sow light.
Where there is sadness, let me sow joy.
O Divine Master, grant that
I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console.
To be understood as to understand.
To be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive.
It is in the pardoning that we are pardoned.
It is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
          --St. Francis of Assisi




Tuesday, October 27, 2020

A Hawk at Sunrise: An Angel Message

 

When the blinds were opened early this morning, what a surprise to see a red shouldered hawk perched atop the old tree limb.  His reddish feathers had a rosy glow as he faced the Light in a peaceful calm.

Lately, hawks have been few and far between, so I was thankful for this early morning riser, and his  guidance to keep thoughts on high today.  Whatever you do, don't come down and get entangled in the drama.   Stay calm, and face the light of a new day.  All is well.  

I looked up the symbolism of hawk  in  the Animal-Speak Pocket Guide.  The hawk represents "spirit vision and guardianship surround you.  Be patient and observe.  You will see the opportunities.  Signs are clear." 

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

  

Saturday, October 24, 2020

Turkey Vulture - An Angel Message of Rebirth

 Yesterday afternoon, passing by the lake on an ice-cream run, I couldn't help but notice an enormous pair of brown feathery wings draped on the towering water measurement rod.  Turkey vultures are one of the most misunderstood species, but I've noticed how they appear whenever an extra dose of unseen motherly help is needed.  They represent Purification--Death and Rebirth--and New Vision.  It's a time of endings and beginnings, and to trust the process is for your highest good. It is also a time of renewed health.

Turkey vulture is a bird of grace--it's scientific name, cathartes aura, means golden purifier.  The flock gathers on communal roosts at night, and at dawn in the early morning light, they open their wings wide to dry the dew.  This stance looks like they are honoring the rising sun.   

Although homely when just standing, they soar the vast skies with grace, riding on air thermals for hours without flapping their wings. They don't have to expend a lot of energy to defy gravity.  They simply use what is available.

These birds have keen eyesight and a powerful sense of smell.  As such it will help to discern if something doesn't quite smell right in your life.  Although the vulture has no real voice, it can force air out of its beak to hiss.  To some, this teaches the lesson of acting rather than talking--performing rather than just talking about doing it.  

The turkey vulture brings a promise that the suffering of the immediate is temporary and serves a higher purpose that is at work, even if not understood at this time.  It reflects that no matter how difficult the life conditions, rescue is imminent in your life regardless of how deep the troubled waters may appear.  

The sky was full of rain clouds as I got out of the car and approached her.  As you can see, the turkey vulture turned around to face me, making sure her best side was captured on the tall water meter pole. After the photo op, she spread her wide wings and took to the skies...soaring effortlessly and free.

But ask the beasts, and they shall teach thee: 
and the birds of the air, and they shall tell thee.  
Speak to the earth, and it shall answer thee; 
and the fishes of the sea shall tell.  
                       (Job. 12:7)
 
I was thankful for the message.  This too shall pass...
 
Keep soaring on thoughts winged with God's Love to gracefully sustain you on high, knowing all is well, even if not fully understood in the moment. Angels are here with each of us to comfort, protect, and guide. No one is ever truly alone...and what a joyful blessing to cherish and retain.

 Love and peace,


Rae Karen



(Ref. Animal-Speak, Ted Andrews)


Wednesday, October 21, 2020

National Apple Day: An Angel Message

 
 
By chance, I learned that today is National Apple Day. It brought to mind a special teacher that helped me gain wisdom during a challenging time. 
 
Many years ago, while living in a cottage on a farm, an old apple tree outside my bedroom window became a teacher of mine. Shortly after moving in, I was awakened in the middle of the night. My senses were heightened at the abundance of nature surrounding our little home.  I could sense the grass growing, the trees budding, and the flowers blooming.  As I lay still in the ecstasy of springtime,  I saw the moon aglow.  It seemed to rise like an orange halo atop the blossoming old apple tree.  The tree's sweet essence wafted through the night air. 

In time, that old apple tree and I became good friends. I would see her from my bed first thing in the morning. Gazing out the bedroom slider, my thoughts could stretch beyond the golden field and green pasture, carrying me like a leaf riding the wind.  
 
I watched the old apple tree transform that first spring.  When her lovely apple blossom gown faded, out popped strands of green "pearls" in her shiny new leaves.  By the end of the season, she had spread out a fruitful feast for squirrels, birds, and other creatures to enjoy. She was a cheerful giver.
 
Then, in the fall, she loosened her leafy coat, and stood bare.  Her gray weathered trunk and twisted empty limbs held no trace of her beauty. Once soft and lacy in flowering pink like a blushing bride, carrying a fragrant bouquet, now she was resting in a dream of spring.
 
Then, one winter's morning, as I gazed at her from my bed, I was startled to find something new and different. The old tree's twiggy branches had naturally formed a profile of a lady's smiling face, as if fashioned by the old apple tree herself!
 
This childlike discovery filled me with wonder, as if finding a hidden object in a children's picture book.  The smiling face looked to the east,--to the sunrise-- a place of illumination, and new beginnings.  That long winter I became rather fond of the Apple Tree Lady's optimistic image.
 
But, with the return of spring, I bid her a fond farewell as she disappeared in a tapestry of new green leaves.  The weight of the apples, and squirrels that scampered on her limbs would surely break up her twiggy profile.
 
But, I was wrong.
 
Following a plentiful harvest, the wind tossed her leaves until, again, she stood in her nakedness.  One winter's morning, I opened my eyes.  Glancing upward, I saw her.  The Apple Tree Lady was still there!
 
I knew she was teaching me many lessons:  How life brings changes and things once seen can disappear for a season, but although no longer visible, they remain with us to return again bringing a  gift of wisdom in the divine order of all life. 
 
Our bond continued, but the following autumn, I really didn't expect to see her face again.  
 
But, once more, I was wrong.
 
 It was as if the old tree and I shared a secret joy, like finding a long, lost friend. 

"See me! I made it! was her message.  There are many hidden mysteries yet to be revealed. Do not be deceived by the many changes that shroud your view. Things are not always as they appear. You, too, have an inward Spirit that is untouched by life's circumstances."

One day while weeding beneath her laden boughs, a large apple landed beside me.  I smiled, accepting the invitation to share.  Thanking my tree friend, I took a bite, officially sealing our bond.  

Today, in celebration of National Apple Day, I cut an apple cross-wise, in the middle between the stem and the bottom of the apple (not the normal way).  
 
The inside view brought a wondrous smile.  It was still true...in the center of the apple, the seeds are in the shape of a star,-- a sign of hidden knowledge.  
 
 


I'm forever thankful to my apple tree friend for her gentle, playful, giving spirit.  "If nature is your teacher, you will truly learn." 
 
Love and peace,
 
 
Rae Karen 

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Keeping A Watchful Eye: An Angel Message

 The last two days, this cormorant has been watching over the lake when I passed by to the post office.  Usually these long necked divers are serious fisher birds, and haven't been hanging around here much this summer.  Cormorants swallow pebbles to achieve their goal.  The extra weight helps them to plunge down deep and wait for an unsuspecting fish. Sometimes they are called underwater falcon.

When a bird or animal appears on our path, a large part of the personal message has to do with what  was it doing when you first spotted it?  Usually, a first intuitive impression brings out the lesson. 

With the watchful eye of the cormorant, perched on  the  "7" water gauge, (the number of completion and perfection), it came to me as a reminder to watch my thoughts today.  At times when we are the most tired, depressed or worried, the ego will set a trap to get us to take the bait, and lose our peace in the drama. We may be able to hold our peace 99% of the time, but that one percent that is still a work in progress, is the target of the ego--our Achilles heel. 

The "7" Cormorant was on guard, keeping vigil, over the lake, and so today I will silently ask the Holy Spirit to help me see peace instead of whatever is trying to swallow me up.  

The cormorant message is about new beginnings.  Don't hold on to bad energy (disappointment, resentment, regret)   Let them go.  All is well.  All is well.

Love and peace,


Rae Karen


Monday, October 19, 2020

An Enlightened Treefrog: Angel Message

 Okay, this is one of those unusual nature messages that you can't make happen, and so when it does, the lesson is always about staying mindful of the presentation, and learn from it, in gratitude.

On Sunday morning after meditation, something caught my attention out the window.  From a distance, it looked as though a super slug had fastened itself to the lantern post in the front yard. But, then it changed direction, and out popped four little legs.  It wasn't a slug, but a cute little treefrog!

The sight of it clinging to the lamp post brought a grateful smile.    Frog is an acronym for: (F)ully (R)ely (O)n (G)od. 

 Saturday night's heavy rains must have drawn the little fellow out to dry in the light of a new day.  The unusual pose he struck--with those tiny suction cup fingers clinging to the triple lantern post, seemed like a message.  Stay focused on the Light, and don't let go no matter what!  The triple lantern brightly glows 24/7, and is powered by the community where we live.

What happened next caught me by total surprise.  

The lesson on Light was not over yet.   From the window, Elliot pointed to a hole on the weathered lamp post.  It was a small hole on the pole beneath the tree frog.  He's going into that hole!  Elliot shouted, watching at the window.  The idea was so absurd, I didn't even bother to look. 

"There's no way he can fit!"  I laughed.

Elliot then shouted, watching the performance.  "He did it!  He squeezed into that small hole!"

Like a doubting Thomas, I looked out the sun-room window.  

The treefrog was not there! 

 Somehow he was flexible enough to maneuver his pudgy body into that small opening. It did seem like a miracle.  

We laughed at the demonstration, and the powerful angel message to seek refuge in the Light during these tumultuous times of spiritual acceleration.  The little frog fully relied on God, and lived in the Light.  He was at home in the Light.

So whatever problem you may be facing today, take to heart the lesson of the little treefrog. Fear not. Fully rely on God, -- stay flexible, and, against all odds, Divine Love will make a way for you to find refuge in the Light.   Angels are here on this journey to comfort and guide.  Nothing is impossible with God.

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

 

Sunday, October 18, 2020

Tortoise and the Pink Periwinkles: An Angel Message

 

Something amusing happened yesterday that I want to share with you.  When Elliot and I got home in the afternoon, as we pulled into the driveway, what a surprise.  A large tortoise was making tracks by the garage.  It's been ages since a turtle/tortoise sighting here, and his timing was good. "Slow and steady wins the race."  

In the short time it took to get out of the car, our hard shelled messenger had disappeared.  Then… the wild pink periwinkle flowers began shaking back and forth behind a low bush by the garage door.   

 

A head peeked out from under the green leafy bush.  LOL. The tortoise came out in the sunlight to take a bow.   Apparently, he wanted to be in the angel blog. :-D


I thanked him for the encouraging message to keep on moving in a slow and steady manner. Don't quit no matter what!  Just like a tortoise carries his home with him, so do we carry the house (consciousness) of God with us wherever we go.  We live and move and have our being in Him.    Nothing can ever separate us from the Love of God.

Happily, I moved the garden hose so the tortoise could make a smooth exit and be on his way to victory.  His arrival was just the tonic needed to break the mesmerism of any fear or doubt.

Later, for fun, I looked up the symbolism of periwinkles.  In German, it is known as the Flower of Immortality, and the color pink is divine love.

Remember you are never alone. God will never leave you comfortless.  He has given His angels charge to watch over you. Rejoice.

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen