Looking Deeper: An Angel Message

 We are always learning and growing, peeling away hidden layers of judgment that pop up to be humbled and healed.  Something interesting unfolded in yesterday's mail. A postcard arrived all the way from Singapore.  At first glance, it was vague and drab, not much to brighten one's day.  But I was wrong. A closer look revealed a radiant young woman, as bright as the moon, standing on the precipice of a starry night.  

But there was more. My new random postcard friend from Singapore had added a touch of creativity tucked away in an unusual and creative way.  A tiny paper crane had been folded behind a swatch of decorative tape on the back of the card!  Although the Singapore postage stamp got scraped off in transit, the hidden gift of a precious crane landed safely in our mailbox.  A 26-day journey that covered 10,318 miles and delivered a BIG smile of joyful gratitude.

Curious, our cat Hei-Hei sniffed the colorful winged messenger of creativity.

For fun, I looked up the symbolism of crane again and found the perfect message: "The crane can teach you how to celebrate your creative resources and keep them alive, regardless of the conditions in which they manifest, both by simply having the proper focus in your life." 

The angels encourage everyone to let their creative ideas take flight today.  Have fun and share a little touch of heaven with others. After all, it is Love that inspires, illuminates and brings joy along the way.

Enjoy your day with the angels, and celebrate the little thoughtful things that make life sweet and precious.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen 

(Ref. Crane quote: Animal-Speak by Ted Andrews)

When, O when will you soar?

While reading Amazing Grace, A Vocabulary of Faith, by Kathleen Norris, I lit upon a passage of quotes by Saint Mechthild, a mystic and poet, know as a troubadour of the love that binds the soul.  The 13th century Benedictine nun's inspirational writings about bird flight lifted my spirit, and I wanted to share her prose about God's love with you.

“When a bird remains long on the ground it thereby weakens its wings and its feathers grow heavy.  Then it rises, flaps its wings and swings itself up till it takes to the air and glides into flight.  The longer it flies, the more blissfully it soars, refreshing itself, hardly alighting on the earth to rest.  So it is with the soul: the wings of love have taken from it the desire for earthly things.  We must prepare ourselves in the same way if we wish to come to God.  We must rise on wings of longing up to him.”     

"In so far as we live here in God’s love,/So far shall we soar in bliss in the heavenly heights,/ So far will the power of love be given us."  

"When, O when will you soar?”  --Mechthild

 

 When O when will I soar? I began asking myself, especially when weighed down by any fearful thoughts. 

Synchronicity was at play when I discovered a Willow Tree figurine entitled,"Soar", for sale on-line.  When the statue arrived in the mail, it took me a while to notice the girl had no wings, unlike the other Willow Tree angels in my limited collection.  Yet the symbolism was even more meaningful and timely to me as she was setting her dove-like spirit free. A time to reflect, a time to soar!

I'm so thankful for the angelic prompts that guide us on our upward journey.  How comforting to find that whatever we need to learn and grow is presented in a simple yet profound symbol of synchronicity that comes right on time.  Synchronicity, the language of angels lifts the heart.  How blessed are we to embrace the loving company of these humble divine messengers who tirelessly work on our behalf to help us soar and remind us that there is nothing to fear.  God is Love.

Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

 

 

 

 

Ibis and a Crescent Moon: An Angel Message

 Yesterday at the lake, I happened to look up to find an unusual sight.  Three ibis were standing tall on the power lines. The birds’ snowy white feathers glistened in the warmth of the sun of the first month of the new year, 2022.  What were those long-legged waders doing on high.  In all the years, I've never seen an ibis on the wire.  My eyes traveled higher, and to my surprise the moon was out, etched in a blue sky of wispy white clouds. I felt a cosmic connection between me, the ibis, and the moon. In that moment, something decisive happened, an intersection of our world and the spiritual world.

Ibis are a bird of communication, and it seemed important to capture the moment, and me without my camera. I’ve been working with the concept of time being relative, and if something is ours to do, we will have time to do it...if we just keep moving forward.  Working with that thought, I returned home, got my camera (a 2-mile drive to the house) hoping the messengers would be waiting for a photo opportunity. 

 

Coming round the bend by the lake, I could see two ibis standing erect on the left-hand side of the extended power cable, and two others on the right-hand side.  Balance.  The bright sun made it hard to see as I tried to capture the moon in the picture.  When the photos were uploaded, one ibis was standing on one leg.  A touch of humor, or showing off? I wondered about the message.  Was it to write while I still have a leg to stand on?  Or I’m getting a leg-up from the ibis, a spiritual boost on a writing project about the birds. 

Although the moon had faded out of the picture, this morning when I looked up ibis (or Nile Bird), I read the curved beak or crescent-shape is symbolic of the moon.  "If the ibis draws close to you, a spiritual call is sounding your name.  You have been chosen to enter into a new and elevated spiritual understanding."

Last night an angel thought suddenly nudged me to look out the window. I was glad I listened.  The crescent moon hung like a fingernail glowing in the night sky.  

2022 is a year of blessings.  A year when doors of opportunity will open that are not on your usual radar.  Let us begin the New Year by asking to be filled with the knowledge that we are truly loved by God.  "Let me see how how much God loves me."  He has given His angels charge over us when we abide in the consciousness of the Most High.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen

The Value of a Penny: An Angel Message

 Yesterday a quick trip to the store involved a timely angelic reminder.  At the check-out, the cash register acted up with the previous customer.  Frustrated, the pony-tailed clerk claimed she was ready to kill the machine. It needed a reboot, and would take awhile, she apologized. 

 

That was okay with me. I had time to look over all the candy selections on display at the counter.  My temptation was cut short though.  To my surprise, our items were suddenly scooped up and carried to self-checkout. My attention (as only angels can do) was drawn down to the helpful sales girl's feet as she scanned the cat treats and toys for Hei-Hei's stocking.   A dusty old penny, barely visible was sticking out from underneath the scanning machine.   

 

When the items were bagged, I told her about the lost penny.  She picked it up, and handed it to me.  "You found it," she said, not thinking it was worth much. 

 

"I want you to have it." I told her.  "A penny is a sign that the angels are near."  

 

Her mood lifted. It has been a stressful day, she confessed. With a grateful smile, she tucked the coin in her pocket; a keepsake. No longer, a dull worthless penny, but a shining symbol of angelic help ever- present. 

 

So that penny you happen to find on the ground is not by chance.  Over the years, I've noticed a penny will turn up just when I need a little spiritual boost the most.  To find a penny is a sign from the angels that everything is in divine order so trust the process. All is well.  

 

I'm always grateful for the loving reminder that we are never alone, but always in the presence of unseen celestial help, guiding and protecting us along the way.  The more you welcome and embrace their presence, the more pronounced their loving expression of love, peace, joy, and harmony will be. 

 

Years ago, a friend shared this uplifting poem on the value of a penny, and the presence of our guardian angel.

Incredible

I found a penny today

Just laying on the ground,

But it's not just a penny

This little coin I found.

That's what my Grandma told me,

She said, Angels toss them down.

Oh, how I loved that story.

She said, when an Angel misses you

They toss a penny down,

Sometimes just to cheer you up

To make a smile out of your frown

So don't pass by that penny

When you are feeling blue;

It may be a penny from heaven

That your guardian angel tossed to you.

--ANONYMOUS

Love and joyful blessings,

Rae Karen

Remembering Departed Loved Ones: An Angel Message

 

Holidays can be especially sad, longing for cherished memories with loved ones. Many years ago, I read a book by White Eagle that helped me gain a brighter perspective on remembering departed loved ones at Christmas:

"In the world of spirit Christmas time is a most grand and powerful ceremony or festival, of which man only gets a glimmering reflection. Here the presence of the Cosmic Christ is actually seen and felt. Try to picture a temple, apparently built out of light, in the centre of which can be seen a Christmas tree shining with light—a symbol of the Man of Light, or the perfect light symbol; also of the Giver of Light, the Creator. This scene is for the children, and oh! How they love their Christmas festival! Yes, spirit children are very like the earth children—they laugh, sing, and dance, and are easily made happy. They hear the voices of the angels. They enjoy themselves with their appointed mother guardians and with other children who to them are like brothers and sisters.

Those of you who have lost loved ones, husbands, wives or children, should realize that they have only left behind the dust of the earth. They themselves are alive in this wonderful world of eternal life, about which we are trying to speak. In love there is no separation. So at your Christmas try not to think with regret about those whom you have lost; rather let your hearts go out in joy to them in their new-found life of freedom and happiness. They can all gather round you. Yes, we are giving you their message of love. You must not think of us as being very sanctimonious and proper in the spirit world. Indeed, the beloved Lord himself has a keen sense of humour. There is greater fun in the spirit world than on earth. Therefore, may the peace of the spirit of Christ bless your Christmas, and bring to you that deep and lasting happiness which comes in the silence of the night, and in peaceful days.

Before you sleep, try to remember that if your hearts aspire, purely and simply, to join the company of heaven you too may be fetched by angels—by your own angelic teacher and guide—and so witness and even participate in this Christmas celebration. So on earth, whatever you are doing, remain alert; and in your heart keep the simple trust of a little child.

We bring all love from the brotherhood invisible. No matter how far you travel, wherever you go, whatever you do, the friends of your spirit will be close beside you, and the happiness and joy which you feel in your hearts will be increased by their loving presence. Never shut us away at Christmas, we like to come in, we like to come into your heart and into your home."

May you feel the presence of God's loving angels in your heart and find peace during this holy season.

 

Rae Karen

 

 

 *White Eagle Website:
http://www.whiteagle.org/we_home.htm
 

Happy Allahambra: An Angel Message

 A lowly donkey carried Mary, and her unborn babe to the little town of Bethlehem.  In a manger, the world received the greatest gift, the baby Jesus, the Light of the World. 

 Today Elliot and I paid a visit to our favorite Jerusalem donkey at the orchid farm.  To our delight, his territory had greatly expanded and he stood in a green pasture, with plenty of grass to eat. Allahambra's ears perked at the sign of carrots, a favorite treat.

He could hardly finish chewing one carrot stick, when he eagerly looked up for more with his mouth full.

Have you ever seen a more loving face?  

Turns out, he has a fan club.  We had hardly said our goodbyes, when another couple approached with a bag of carrots, calling out his name.  

Donkey brings a message to be wise, but humble in a new opportunity.  People are noticing you, so you do not need to promote yourself. 

And, so he was.

May your holidays be filled with joy, peace, family, and good friends.  And, remember to invite your angels to join you in your festivities during this holy season.

Rae Karen

(Ref. Animal-Speak, Pocket Guide, Ted Andrews)

An Orchid Graces the World - An Angel Message

Earlier this week, on my way to my next-door-neighbor's house, it must have been an angel who pointed out this hidden beauty.   A purple orchid peeked out from under the branches of a tree. With a cheerful greeting,  I counted five swollen pods, pregnant with a promise of more exquisite orchids in the future. A purple orchid symbolizes royalty, and admiration and are traditionally given as a sign of respect.         

On line, I found a quote from Confucius, an orchid admirer:

"The orchids grow in the woods and they let out their fragrance even if there is no one around to appreciate it.  Likewise, men of noble character will not let poverty deter their will to be guided by high principles and morals."  --Confucius

The elegant translation of the quote:  "Orchids grow where others cannot, enduring hardships of hunger and thirst and is loosely tied to the things that support it.  And, even with all the difficulty of its life, the orchids grace the world with beautiful color and rare fragrance.  This is like the life of a true gentlemen who sets himself to learn self-discipline, and whose character shines no matter where he is or what he experiences." 

 I was thankful for the orchid's uplifting angel message. It applies to each of us as we bloom where we are planted.  And, the cheerful purple orchid's burst of energy got me stirring in the garden, weeding and pruning, after a long dry spell.

 Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

The Love of Animals at Christmas Time: An Angel Message

This month I've decided to let nature show me what's behind the advent calendar door each day leading up to Christmas Eve. 

 

Today this gentle pair of wild turkeys stopped by the yard to scratch around.  They have been making themselves scarce since Thanksgiving, so it was a happy sight in the advent calendar door.  

Turkeys symbolize a gift of thanksgiving, abundance, and the great give-away.  A reminder that no matter what's happening-- our challenges, or those whom we love, have come as a gift to strengthen our faith and to grow in spirit. They come to pass, not to stay, and leave us in a higher state of consciousness if we let it.   It's always a thrill to see wild turkeys close to the house-- a time to reflect on the goodness already here and all the blessings to be grateful for, as well as those we can be for others.

Christ's  birth is closely associated with the animal kingdom.  Mary journeyed to Bethlehem on the back of a donkey.  The baby Jesus was born in a manger.  The wise men journeyed on camels to bring gifts to the Bethlehem babe.  Dogs watched over the shepherds' flocks by night when the angels brought glad tidings of great joy. 

Our furry family members, with their warm unconditional love, add to the celebration of Christmas.  It is interesting to note that Saint Francis of Assisi (Patron Saint of Animals) is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223, a live one.  

Listed below are some of the different animals included as part of the Christmas stories told through the years. 

Bees - hummed a Christmas carol.

Beetle - became a glow worm and its light guided travelers.

Cat - appeared, but disdained to join the kneeling beasts and only mumbled in recognition. Amused at its independence, Mother Mary blessed it, saying that it would always live at man's hearth, but never be man's servant.

Camels -  represented religious traditions.

Cow - donated her fresh hay to Mary for the Baby's bed and warmed the Child with her breath.

 

Doves - cooed Jesus to sleep.

Nightingale - had never sung before that night, but the choir of angels roused it and the bird caroled with them.

Owl - did not rouse itself to join its fellow animals and was condemned to perpetual penance, hiding by day and by night, crying "Who will guide me to the new born? Who? Who?"

Robin - fanned the fire in the cave of Bethlehem and kept it burning throughout the night. Its red breast singed by the flames became its mark of generosity.

Rooster - crowed all night.

Sheep - gave Mary the wool to weave a soft blanket.

Stork - plucked its own feathers to soften the infant's bed and so remained the patron of babies ever after.

Let us remember the animal and plant kingdom in our prayers of gratitude today.  You may want to have the nature angels reveal an advent door for you each day.  If so pay special attention to any unusual encounters. What were you thinking/doing when it appeared?  Enjoy the inner wisdom that comes with the gift.

Love and joyful blessings,

Rae Karen

 

 

(animal symbols from web)

Archangel Gabriel at Sunrise

This morning instead of following the daily routine, I found myself seated at my desk in the den writing in my journal. When finished I happened to look up just in time to see a golden sun rising through the trees. A heartwarming vision to begin a new day.  But more was to come.  When I got up from the desk and turned to go to the kitchen, what a surprise! Another magnificent view... Archangel Gabriel aglow in dawn's light, framed in a "window" of radiant sunshine. 

I'm so thankful for his loving angel communication.  Gabriel's name means 'God is my Strength'.  He announces the mystery of incarnation to all souls before they are born and instructs us as to what our talents and tasks in this world will be. 

The governor of the winter season, Archangel Gabriel lights the way to truth within our hearts so we can see what path to follow for our greatest joy and highest good.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen

Peacocks - Show Your Best Side: An Angel Message

This afternoon the angels delivered a happy message on showing your best side.  A drive to visit the peacocks energized the gray day. The family was last sighted several weeks ago, and knowing "watchfulness" is the meaning of these exquisite birds, I kept an eye out, hoping to see one.  I almost missed Papa. His drab back-side faced our way as we drove by.  But then a closer look revealed, he was catching his own beautiful reflection in the glass door or entertaining a resident seated in the rehab lobby. 

Slowing the car down, we gave him a whistle.  That did it.  He pivoted around to reveal his glorious best side.

In all his splendor, he stood on the porch, shimmying in a happy dance of life.

Peacocks are not only beautiful, but amazing energizers. Their long train of tail feathers suddenly pops open like the rush of a royal umbrella in a shower of dynamic creativity. The peacock brings a joyful message to be watchful for simple miracles in the abundant world teeming around you. Thanks to the peacock, I'm reminded to show my best side, and watch for positive results.  

 Love and peace,

 

Rae Karen

Happy Thanksgiving: An Angel Message

 

If mother nature hadn't called, I would have missed the morning sunlight shining through the window blinds. What joy to see the face of Christ spotlighted on the bedroom wall, a first!  And, a loving angel reminder for me to be thankful for the gift of the living Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." 

Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Love and peace,

Rae Karen

New Vision at Blue Springs: Angel Message

With a cold front in Florida, and the promise of a sunlit day, angelic inspiration struck and we were off on an early morning visit to see the big beautiful manatees. When the temperature drops in the St. John's River, the pod swims into the warm blue springs to rest and relax. It's not unusual to find hundreds of these gentle creatures marinating in the natural heated aqua waters. 

It was just the remedy I needed, a change of pace.  The cool air.  The gentle giants.  The calming lull of rippled waters created a living picture of ancient beauty and grace as I watched the palm trees dance in the moving springs. In the cool fresh air, I stared out at the shimmering palette of rich blue and green colors at play and was reminded of the Master artist.  It was a special memory in the making.   As sunlight splashed on the peaceful springs, the large gray form of a manatee would take shape! Sometimes large gray nostrils peeked up out of the depths to take a breath and submerge again.

I learned that these gentle watery mammals see well. A special membrane helps to clean their eyes.  Manatees are a reminder for us to do likewise.  To step back and clear our own vision from time to time.  Are we looking at things too closely? Or not closely enough?  Do you trust your own feelings? Is it time to seek gentler and warmer environments within your own life?  Trust your heart.  Examine your trust in others and follow your own sense of what's right.

As the sun rose higher, the manatees were easier to find.  Here's a mama and her baby.

A fallen tree made a natural bridge for catching some rays.  Room for one more?  A lone turtle gazing up at the sun was soon joined by a mate. Turtles are a  symbol of Mother Earth and it lives in the Mother's harmony.  The shell suggests a hemisphere, and the structure upon the shell, a mountain.  Its movements are slow and calm. When you encounter a turtle, it is time for a turnaround in your life.  It could be a sign to loosen your protective shell and come out of hiding.  

 

Another special messenger was drying out, spreading her black and white wings in the sun. The cormorant is an ancient bird named in the Bible. An aquatic bird, it speaks to the world of watery emotions.  Is there a prayer deep within that you are repressing?  If a cormorant is seen drying its feathers it is an invitation to open yourself up to yourself, look into your deepest being that place where the divine enters.  Pray for answers, guidance, courage, and strength.

It was a joyful spontaneous outing and a wonderful blessing to connect with the angels in nature.  May your day be filled with peace, and expect the happy things of God to come to you.  The best is yet to be.

"For he has given his angels charge over you..."   (Psalm 91)

Love and happiness,

 

Rae Karen