GIVE

I have been so inspired by the following from Isabel Allende, that I just had to share it with you:

"I have lived with passion and in a hurry, trying to accomplish too many things. I never had time to think about my beliefs until my 28-year-old daughter Paula fell ill. She was in a coma for a year and I took care of her at home, until she died in my arms. Paralyzed and silent in her bed, my daughter Paula taught me a lesson that is now my mantra: You only have what you give…

The pain of losing my child was a cleansing experience. I had to throw overboard all excess baggage and keep only what is essential. Because of Paula, I don't cling to anything anymore. Now I like to give much more than to receive. I am happier when I love than when I am loved. I adore my husband, my son, my grandchildren, my mother, my dog, and frankly I don't know if they even like me. But who cares? Loving them is my joy.

Give, give, give—what is the point of having experience, knowledge or talent if I don't give it away? Of having stories if I don't tell them to others? Of having wealth if I don't share it? I don't intend to be cremated with any of it! It is in giving that I connect with others, with the world and with the divine. It is in giving that I feel the spirit of my daughter inside me, like a soft presence."

                                                                        ~Isabel Allende

Born in Peru and raised in Chile, Isabel Allende is the author of eight novels, including, most recently, Zorro, Portrait in Sepia, and Daughter of Fortune. She has also written a collection of stories; three memoirs, including My Invented Country and Paula; and a trilogy of children's novels. Her books have been translated into more than twenty-seven languages and have become bestsellers across four continents. In 2004 she was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Isabel Allende lives in California.

Reik At The VA

If you are an experienced, dedicated, Reiki practitioner, I invite you to join us at the VA (SAVACHS-Southern AZ VA Health Care System). The Reiki Practitioner Program was established over a year ago to offer Reiki to veterans, guests, staff & volunteers, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday afternoons. Last month we provided more than 200 12-minute Reiki sessions. The VA is a very pleasant place to practice and gain clinical Reiki experience in interim, rehab, and transitional (hospice, palliative, respite) care.  Our Reiki services are highly valued by the supportive staff and the appreciative patients. 

Entrance into the program is open to those who have completed ART or Master level training, and also to active Level 2s who agree to take Level 3/ART within 6 months of acceptance.  Volunteers are expected to work a weekly 3 hour shift, and be available most of the year.  Seasonal residents will be considered as staffing permits.

The site for general info on volunteering at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System (SAVAHCS) is the Department of Veterans Affairs.  Be aware that all VA volunteers need to complete an application, be interviewed, attend a one time Volunteer Orientation, and must successfully complete fingerprint and background checks, and have an initial TB test.  This process takes time, and must be completed prior to working with patients.

To learn more about becoming a Reiki volunteer, contact me for information at 520 730 1620, or dmreiki@gmail.com.  I look forward to talking with you about your service for the men and women who have given so much for our country. Your time will be well spent and the experience affecting.

Send Reiki, NOT Rounds

I stand with Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly

Two years ago, a mentally ill young man shot Gabby Giffords in the head, killed six of her constituents, and wounded 12 others. Since that terrible day, America has seen 11 more mass shootings – but no response from Congress to prevent gun violence. After the massacre of 20 children and six of their teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary though, it’s clear: This time must be different.

Americans for Responsible Solutions will encourage elected officials to stand up for solutions to prevent gun violence and protect responsible gun ownership by communicating directly with the constituents that elect them.

Join me today by signing up to demand responsible solutions to reduce gun violence.

http://americansforresponsiblesolutions.org/