With Awareness Comes Choice

  Sitting on a plane having just left Miami where I delivered a leadership workshop to approximately thirty sports based youth development coaches, I look out my window and begin to reflect.  I reflect on the day, the week and yes, even this past year. Low oxygen and being away from my puppy for over a week gets me in these sappy states! The experience I had with this amazing group of people who have dedicated this stage of their life to helping youth from all backgrounds realize their human potential through the medium of sports leaves me filled with joy, love and a sense of pride in the work that I have done for so many years and for the new work I am blessed to do at this juncture. The two organizations I represented have been integral parts of a powerful non-profit movement that serve youth from across the United States for a combined twenty plus years.  Reflecting on that reality leaves me humbled and grateful to be part of such a movement. But that was just my mor...

Thanks to Neil Diamond, performer extraordinaire, I felt inspired to use this simple title after such a long time away.  So, hello again, hello .  Hello, my friends, hello. Go ahead, click on the  link, I won't tell.  And to those of you who saw my Facebook post about going to see him in concert last week, he didn't disappoint.  Just sayin.... I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to write about, but knew I wanted to write.  I have missed it.  I have missed you.  Therefore, in keeping with the title, I shall just update you on my life since our last correspondence.  Consider this my handwritten letter to you, my friends.       It took about three weeks to fully recover from India.  Seriously, I'm sensitive.  That left me about one week to wrap my brain and gut around the idea that I was leaving again, for Spain.  This was a trip I had purchased over three years ago at a silent auction from Burke and ...

I have to be honest, part of what I have loved about this blogging experience is the exploration of words.  While I still enjoy throwing a word or two out there that may or may not fit the bill, I have also become more mindful of the true meanings of a word before I gently place it into my ramblings.  If you consider the fact that different sources may have slightly different definitions and that we, as the funny little creatures that we are, have our own spin, this English language becomes much more complicated than you can imagine!  Having said that, I am firmly rooted in my belief that clear communication can lead to world peace, but that post is for another time. Pretty advanced thinking, yes? I guess it depends on how you define advanced.  At this point, you are probably once again asking yourself "where is she going with this?"  In fact, there is a really good chance that question comes up every time I open my mouth or put something in print. I'm okay w...

Although it seems like eons ago, I have found myself thinking about what it was like to attend professional development gigs during the last few years of my career.  My standard response when asked about a conference or workshop I attended would be "you know, I don't always learn something new, but I always walk away either having something old brought to the forefront of my brain or being re-energized about my job.  And occasionally, I learn something new." Before I tie this to my India experience, let me explain my position. I so don't think I know it all, far from it.  However, after 22 years in my field(s), it was sometimes hard to run across something new, so I always relied on the fact that I would gain something important, no matter what. My experience in India provided both opportunities.  Tantric philosophy, Vinyasa Flow and Indian culture were new, while looking inward at my life; my relationship to self, others and the universe was in many ways like...

Tomorrow is the 19th day of my Sacred Lasya yoga training in Kerala, India.  With everything that I have experienced thus far, I am amazed I have not posted a piece a day; alas, I seem to have writer's block!  On one level it is frustrating because I had hoped to share my experience as it was unfolding, but on another level, it is what it is.  For those of you who have been anticipating my witty banter and sage wisdom, my humblest apologies.  To those of you who have never experienced my posts as witty or wise ....we will talk when I return. Speaking of talking, in 9 hours we will begin three days of silence.  During this time we have been charged to have our own vision quest type of experience.  The only thing that is mandatory is three hours of asana/meditation practice each day.  Other than that, it is up to us.  I would love to share what I am going to do, but I still don't know.  I imagine one day will include several hours of sustain...

the real story Good day to you all and by the way, Happy St.Patrick's Day! I have been waiting for so long to have the opportunity to tell you the "real story" about mom's adventures.  First of all, however, for those of you that don't like it when we dogs refer to our owners as "mom," get over it.  I mean, you are reading a post written by a dog.  What does that say about you? If you know mom, you obviously know where I get my sense of humor and sarcasm, so sit back, relax and enjoy the post.  Seriously, that's all you can really every do, regardless of the author.  She asked me to give folks a little preview into this upcoming trip as her most recent inquiries make it quite obvious that no one really knows what the hell she is doing...present company included. Fortunately, this gives me a very unique perspective. Let me start off by saying two things; I'm glad she isn't going back to Arizona and I'm glad she isn't taking me with ...

Sometimes, or one might even argue that most of the time the greatest awareness occurs in the simplest of messages.  Yesterday I posted this line on Facebook  "I am so flippin happy right this minute....I might burst."  In less than twenty four hours, it has been liked 30 times!  Nothing I have ever written has been liked that many times and I think I have written some pretty cool shit...but I guess nothing as profound or meaningful as that simple sentiment.  At first, when it was up to about 20 likes, I just laughed and noted the observation.  But this morning, sitting here sipping my coffee and looking at the most recent number and diversity of "likes," I found myself smiling and processing the hidden or not so hidden message. It was obvious to me that the people who read this and responded were genuinely happy that I was happy.  In fact, a few said exactly that.  It had the most amazing effect on me.  I became...wait for it, even happier...

Good day all.  I have heard from a few people who told me that they thought they subscribed to the Follow the Warrior automated e-mail notifications but have not received any at this point.  If you did and received this post, can you do me a favor and post a comment at the end of the post for me. Thanks and Namaste!

....Richard, that is.  I have been wanting to write this post since having a great conversation with friends a few weeks ago but had to get permission and the "balls "to use the title! Yes, this is going to be one of those posts when I crack myself up at first, so brace yourself.  Before I tell you what's behind the clever name, feel free to check out the link on how Dick became a nickname for Richard.  Fascinating I tell you, just fascinating.  Based on this body of research and the most common letters used to shorten names (H, B and D) I am currently thinking that my nickname shall be Ham (and look, a natural pun.) If that doesn't work, feel free to just holler "Bam or Dam" and you are sure to get my attention.  Now, where was I going with this? One of my last posts was an exploration into the word Saucha or Contentment.  I was having a conversation with myself about what that really meant.  A few of the lingering questions at the time debated whe...

Learn More | Books and Audio | The Pema Chödrön Foundation February 24, 2012 THE COURAGE TO WAIT When you’re like a keg of dynamite about to go off, patience means just slowing down at that point—just pausing—instead of immediately acting on your usual, habitual response. You refrain from acting, you stop talking to yourself, and then you connect with the soft spot. But at the same time you are completely and totally honest with yourself about what you are feeling. You’re not suppressing anything; patience has nothing to do with suppression. In fact, it has everything to do with a gentle, honest relationship with yourself.

World English Dictionary  vulnerable  (ˈvʌlnərəb ə l)— adj 1. capable of being physically or emotionally wounded or hurt 2. open to temptation, persuasion, censure, etc Ponder that.... entry coming soon!

When considering what my fourth and final inquiry would be, I must admit that I wanted to return to a few I had already practiced.....and practice some more.  However, our assignment was to pick a new one each week and since I am the student, not the teacher, I shall be an obedient one or at least try.  I will continue to informally address Santosha/contentment and have much to say about my discoveries so stay tuned.  In the meantime I shall explore Satya, or commitment to the truth.  I have attached the link once again if you wish to gain a better understanding of the Yamas/Niyamas as related to the Eightfold Path.  On the surface, this was the last one I thought I would choose for an inquiry as I consider myself to be a pretty open and honest person, straightforward and truthful and not one for gossip or caddy talk.  When I looked a bit deeper at the definition given in the readings, I did find the area of Satya in which I struggle and thus, that will ...

I was just reading a FB entry from another yogini when I saw the word Santosha .  My mind immediately started to think about my recent blog post on Saucha and something didn't feel quite right.  I googled (my favorite verb) because it was quicker than grabbing my journal from Kripalu to see where I had erred.  Imagine my horror when I realized that I had been practicing contentment but calling it the wrong name! I can only imagine that you are equally as horrified. For those of you that have used the word Saucha in casual conversation and received odd stares, I humbly apologize.  I am, as I loudly proclaim, still a baby warrior and some of my falls are harder than others. Saucha, in fact, refers to purity and cleanliness- on the inside and out.  That could really be why you were receiving odd stares---just sayin'.  Anyhow, Santosha is the word for contentment.  Since I didn't receive any laughs, rude comments or corrective language, I can only assum...

Saucha (contentment) is the next of the Yamas/Niyamas , the restraints and observances of The Eightfold Path, that I have chosen for my most recent inquiry practice. This is just one of the many assignments we have been asked to do in order to better prepare us for our India immersion experience.  For four weeks we are to practice any Yama or Niyama, picking a new one each week and then writing a reflection of the experience.  If you have been following, you know that I began the inquiry with Aparigraha (non-attachment) and then moved on to Tapas (discipline).  Let's just say that they were indeed inquiries and leave it at that.  If you are a glutton for punishment OR don't have a clue what I'm referring to, you can find this info in my archived posts.  I am content either way, I think. Contemplate " to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about: to contemplate a difficult problem,"  Contentment " peace of mind; mental or emotion...

Hi all, Just like I consider myself a baby warrior, I also consider myself a baby blogger. Since August, I have been going old school and sending out individual e-mails to those folks who said they wanted to follow me or posting on FB. A bit tedious and not all that effective.  I have seen other blogs and knew there had to be a way to let people decide for themselves and get automatic notices, but I was WAY TOO BUSY to figure out how to do it...... Having had breakfast with a good friend this morning who said he would love to read it if he knew when there were new posts, I was inspired to come home and tackle it. It took me 2.5 minutes.  And another 3.5 to write this piece and I would say it was 6 minutes well spent.   Check it out under Baby Warrior on the right hand side and come enjoy the journey with me. Jai, Pam

I thought of the title long before I had any idea what I might write about, so as always, prepare yourself for the unknown...I have.   My mom's real name was Bernadette but she went by Debby, with a Y.  She departed this earth nine years ago this past Saturday, Jan 21st.  Truly un-fuc*ing believable.  I picked up my friend Debbie, with an IE, from the airport this past Saturday morning, Jan 21st.  She actually came to visit, truly un-fuc*ing believable.  Just kidding, but it flowed so well, I had to stick it in there.  Debb(ie) was named after my mom. Pretty cool since we aren't even related, except by the bonds of "Wuv, True Wuv." Oh, I am on a roll now.  You see, our parents met when they were very young and as best as we can recall, only knew each other somewhere between  4-8 months before Marly and Larry Cracraft moved to Michigan.  But it had already happened; Debby and Marly were the best of friends.  And as best friend...

I'm not setting my alarm tonight.  I am, however, still practicing Tapas and being fairly successful, if I do say so myself.  I was unable to accomplish my intention of being on the mat by 7 a.m. and it only took me two days to forgive myself; now that is a discipline worth practicing.  As I finish day eleven of my fifteen day personal practice, I am reminded of the discipline I have demonstrated during this time. Most importantly, and delving even deeper into the meaning of tapas, this discipline has inspired and motivated me, igniting a new passion for my practice.  After just eleven days, I don't feel as if I need to discipline myself to be on the mat for an hour.  It just kind of feels like that is what I want and need to do.  It is that simple.  Maybe that's the point of discipline, of Tapas.   Now, if it was just that simple to wake up early.........

I set my alarm last night.  It was a different alarm and it didn't go off.  Well, that isn't exactly true.  It actually went off about an hour ago, 7:00 pm.  Not much help for a 7 a.m. wake up call.  It was probably for the best though because when I rolled over and looked at the clock at 8:00 a.m, I had a wicked headache.  It was accompanied by a wicked neck ache.  I'm no doctor (though I do play one on TV) but I'm pretty certain that the combination of painting, painting, painting and yoga created a lil' muscular stress in those areas.  I slowly got up and staggered to the kitchen.  I had only taken about ten steps but was already deep into the dialogue of how I seemingly failed to get up on time and contemplating if I was actually going to go downstairs for an a.m. practice.  As I swallowed a Naprosyn and prepared the French press, I managed to think about the deeper meaning of Tapas; not an easy task when your brain is doing its own ...

I set my alarm last night.  That was the first phase of increasing the probability of me getting up at 7:00 a.m.  Years ago, after taking my first sabbatical (so to speak), I remember telling folks that I thought I would have a difficult time working from home.  I imagined sleeping in, working in my pajamas and only showering when absolutely necessary, as defined by me!  I knew people who worked from home and most of them exhibited at least one of the above characteristics.  OK, before you state the obvious, I KNOW that I'm not working, at least in the conventional sense of the word.  However, in my daily endeavors to find meaning and purpose (now THAT is work!) I resemble the aforementioned remark.  The good news is that I have saved on my water bills as laundry and showering seem to occur much less:)  This is where Tapas (self-discipline) comes in....so I got up this morning, had coffee, and was on my mat by 8:00 a.m.  That is 2.5 hours ear...

Now for those of you who were like "Right on, Pam is finally talking about something I'm interested in--- food! I love Tapas. In fact, just last night I went to this Tapas restaurant and....." Stop right there .  That's not the kind of Tapas I'm talking about.  Although, make no bones about it, I love Tapas.  Add in a nice Sangria or beverage of choice and YUM.  However, in Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, Tapas refers to self-discipline/ patience/the disciplined use of our energy; the opposite of what I usually demonstrate when 17 mini-plates of food and delicious beverages are placed in front of me.  But this isn't about food, or is it?  I can probably make it about food.  When I get on a roll,  I can connect anything.  I am like one really, really, long run-on sentence.  Ever noticed?  Discipline-hmm.  Where to start?  Oh yes, today begins my second week of inquiry practice with regards to the Yamas/Niyamas; the...

Looking back on my Kripalu journal from teacher training 17 months ago, I realized that my first exposure to truly understanding The Eightfold Path or Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga, occurred  the first week in an evening session led by one of my favorite Yogi's, Danny Arguetty.  For those of you new to Yoga, the asanas or postures that most people associate with Yoga, are actually the third limb as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras.  The first two limbs are The Yamas and Niyamas , otherwise referred to as restraints and observances.   They are outlined very simply in the above link if you are interested, and will probably resemble, in some small way, the principles you already apply or try to apply to living well.   Anyhow, the night we were exposed to these principles, we were led in several different exercises of reflection and sharing. When we got to Aparigraha or non-attachment, the exercise was to consider "what no longer serves me?"  For me, at ...

I have been inspired by two things; seeing so many other cool designs in folks Blogs and doing a house purge and several new paint jobs in the next days and weeks to come!  New Year and new look.  Very, very excited for both.  If you have a favorite color, theme or design that you think the "spiritual-warrior-in-training" should consider, just let me know. Jai! P.S.  Happy Birthday Mom! I love you and miss you more than I could ever express.

I just returned home from Kripalu after spending five glorious days there, including ringing in the New Year "yogi style."  Having spent the last two New Year's Eve in similar environments, I must admit that I can't imagine doing it any other way.  To my surprise, well not really because I often miss the fine print, I had signed up for a four day program, not just a celebration on New Year's Eve.  From Thursday-Sunday I attended "Bhakti Bliss."  For those of you unfamiliar with Bhakti or Bhakti Yoga, it loosely means spiritual devotion or love for God and is often practiced via Kirtan or chants.  Whether participating in the traditional call and response chants or being part of the drum circle, dancing in the aisles or listening to stories told to music, I was completely absorbed in the experience......but not from the start. As my last one-sentence post indicated, I have been going through some holiday transitions. When I landed at Kripalu on that T...