It has been a month since I returned from my European holiday and still I am unable to capture in words the impact of the experience. I grasp the fullness of the blessing only to have it flit away as I begin to mold it towards some lucid, fully formed understanding.There are elements of angels mixed with what Joseph Campbell describes as the hero's journey. An adventure that we all are invited to undertake, to become the hero of our own lives, if only we listen to and accept our calling without allowing our ego to interfere. We are prepared for and ready for the journey. If we were not, it would not present itself. All we have to do is commit.
Many people do not. There is fear, doubt and often seemingly valid reasoning to stay put, to linger close to home (not only in the physical sense), to comfort, to what is known. It takes some sacrifice to follow "the music of the spheres, the music we dance to even when we cannot name the tune" but though it we find bliss.
Those who do, shine.
To me, there are angel-like figures here on Earth providing examples of possibility, love and kindness. And when these 'angels' take you under their wing, share their experiences and struggles and shine that white light of love in your direction it changes you.
There are angels all around.
In Zurich, Switzerland I had the privilege to spend time with two brilliant angels; Cherie and Milud. The words of Joseph Campbell seem to be living within them as they understand and embody this statement "You may have success in life, but then just think of it - what kind of life was it? What good was it if you've never done the things you wanted to do in all your life?" When you follow your bliss, you come to bliss!
Cherie and Milud? They are bliss.
They examine and question. They cherish, love and care for one another. They have life in perspective. And it seems to me that with a strong foundation you can begin to share this love and gratitude with others. And, once again in my life, I feel blessed, humbled and grateful. I thank them.
Also, can you think of a better combination than spending time with angels who celebrate cocktail hour with you at 6:00?
8 comments:
I love when angels fall into my path. Yours are extra beautiful!
I find that, unfortunately, the word "hero" has become so overused and misapplied in American culture that it has become nearly meaningless. A great antidote for that is to turn, again and again, to Joseph Campbell's take on heros and the hero's journey.
A nice tribute to your angels, Gary.
I am so touched - we are happy, its true and now happier. Our friends know what so few have figured out and still search for....LOVE is the answer, its purpose, our connection to each other and we need not look any further than inside ourselves yet some search all their lives for something elusive - its here right here. Its in the joy you shared when you found the perfect German Curious George book, the way that you sign while you speak and the excitement when you talk about your children. Its in Ashleys and Jasons place which is built on hard work yes, but pure love, in the way they share with joy and operate as one- its in the way Michael tilts his head and smiles and is so thoughtful and inclusive, all the time. Its in the way Ed wants so much to give me just the right perfumes and creams....checking, checking, which are the best ones for Cherie, a giver. And the caring and love and connection we all have with each other. We are far from angels.....but we are in love and that is forever. Now, its well into the cocktail hour, you do realize I am on my second Hendricks ......missing you all. Love Cherie
Gary - that is just beautiful & I couldn't agree with you more! There really is something ethereal about Cherie & Milud and being in their presence (especially when they are together) you can feel the love they emanate - you can't help but want to be around these angels! We are lucky to have them as friends & in our lives - shining brightly - reminding us of the endless possibilities in life & continuously challenging us to dream BIG & live BIG.....
I have tried to tell so many people here in LA about the experience of being with Cherie and Milud and how much it touched me and meant to me and can never find the words to express it ... so if you don't mind, I think I may start using the word "angels" too ... it just fits
Who are you guys talking about????, I want to meet this couple..., but, you guys are to much, we're a couple who are deeply in love with each other, and accept each other the way we are.....but thank you all for your kind and warm words....
Thanks Willow. They show up in unexpected places sometimes but they are there when we need them.
Lorenzo - It's true. I love going back to Joseph Campbell every so often to spend time in his words and images. He has a clarity about him that is addicting and helps me think I have it as well. :)
Gary, you know I love you, I think you are phenomenal person, you were a wonderful teacher to my son and he adored you, I think you were one of the few that really got through to him and you let him be himself, even in his little cute tantrums, lol. And I too, would love to meet these angels on earth. Cocktail everyday at 6? Yes, that works for me, xoxo, ♥
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