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

 

 

A Leg-Up: An Angel Message

A sandhill crane represents a sacred guard.  Secret and noble guardianship surrounds you. It's time to participate in the dance of life.* 

It's not unusual to find sandhill cranes in Florida, but this morning, Stretch, our favorite crane, delivered one of those unmistakable angel messages. 

As we parked at the lake, that proud seven-month-old colt stood on top of the picnic table claiming dominion.  His parents were close by, preening.  I laughed, and walked down to the lake.  Schools of happy little minnows stirred in the clear waters. Nature has restored the water depth to above seven feet.   Seven is a number of perfection.  

 To my surprise, on the way back to the car, Stretch struck an unusual pose.  He raised one leg in a yoga stance, and stood effortlessly, gazing at his surroundings. 

 

He was still holding that pose as we drove away.  Out of curiosity, I wondered what the message could be?  A little research on-line revealed that standing on one leg or a one-leg stance exercise helps in maintaining a person's balance or equilibrium.  

Another definition for his attention-getting behavior could have been "a leg up."  That's when we get a boost from someone that enables us to reach something beyond our grasp.   A leg up, a boost.  Since last spring Stretch got "a leg up" from his loving parents.  Amazing, how quickly he has grown up. 

 With everything happening in the world today there are many who could use a boost, or a leg-up.  The angels encourage us to look for ways to share while maintaining a balance.

 Love and peace,

Rae Karen

 

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

Out On A Limb: An Angel Message

 Angels messengers are deliberate and are meant to catch our attention. More times than not, the unusual behavior of the bird or animal holds a key to some adjustment needed in our life. The past few weeks were spent glued to the laptop trying to finish a long-term writing project.  So this baby squirrel resting on our palm tree really hit home.  Time to take a break.     

Squirrels represent a need to balance work and play -- giving and receiving.  

Instead of scampering off when I came out of the house with the camera, he stayed put and posed on high, to make sure I got the picture.

In Animal-Speak, Ted Andrews writes:  "Squirrel advises prepare for the future, but do not get lost in preparations. Find ways to gather and to gift."

Enjoy your day with the Angels,

Love and peace,

Rae Karen

An Unexpected Thanksgiving Blessing: An Angel Message

 

Angels often bring to our attention something we may otherwise have missed. That's what happened at lunch time today. While enjoying a spaghetti meal in the sun-room, I spotted the tail feathers of a large brownish bird on the grass.  I got up to take a closer look. From the sun-room window, what a surprise. A first, a wild lone turkey rested on the green grass in the little garden sanctuary.

Wild turkeys strut about here on occasion, but they are skittish, and don't stick around for long.  The trusting presence of this blue-headed fellow touched my heart.   He felt safe enough to relax in the shade of the trees. 

 His unusual pose brought to mind all the things to truly be thankful for, and to rest in the comfort of the many things often taken for granted. (Sight, hearing, breath, etc.) 

A cheerful heart is good medicine and a thankful heart brings happiness.  Angels encourage us to begin today to look at everything with new and grateful eyes. The word "thank" comes from "think." So, watch your thoughts.  Some people make their life difficult because they only see the negative side.  And, the more they see, the more negative confirmation, as thoughts are things, and never return void. 

In his book, Angels of Grace, Anselm Gruen, the German monk writes, "The Angel of Gratitude would like to open your eyes to the fact that an Angel of God has accompanied you all through your life. A Guardian Angel  has protected you from misfortunes. Your guardian angel has transformed even your injuries into precious treasures.

...The Angel of Gratitude gives you new eyes to become aware of creation and enjoy the beauty around you...the flowers, birds, animals, forests, the mountains, oceans and lakes. You will begin to realize that a loving God touches you in creation and wants to show that He extravagantly cares for you."  

Why not make a gratitude list. 

Today is abundant with blessings to share. 

Thank you, God, for the gift of our loving guardian angels.

 Love and peace,

Rae Karen

 

(Ref. Angels of Grace, Anselm Gruen, 1998)