The Power of Resilience: Stories That Inspire Us to Rise

It’s too easy to get caught in the cycle of chaos and negativity. But what if we shifted our focus to the stories of those who have dared to rise above it—those who have stood in courage and changed the course of history?

One such story is that of Queen Esther, whose bravery is honored during the Jewish holiday of Purim on March 13th. Her story is a powerful lesson in resilience, faith, and the courage to speak up, even in the face of great danger.

The Story of Queen Esther: A Lesson in Courage

Esther was an orphaned Jewish girl raised by her uncle Mordecai in ancient Persia. Through a twist of fate, she was chosen to be queen and became the wife of King Xerxes (Ahasuerus)—though he was unaware of her Jewish identity.

Meanwhile, the King’s chief advisor, Haman, harbored a deep hatred for the Jewish people. When Mordecai refused to bow to him, Haman devised a plan to have all Jews in the empire executed. The King, not realizing the full consequences, signed off on the decree.

Mordecai urged Esther to act, telling her: "Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14)

Fearful but determined, Esther risked her life by approaching the King uninvited—an act punishable by death. She revealed her true identity and pleaded for her people’s lives. The King, enraged by Haman’s deceit, reversed the decree and sentenced Haman to death instead.

Her courage not only saved her people but changed the course of history. Purim, the holiday that celebrates this victory, is a reminder that we all have moments when we are called to step forward, take a stand, and change the narrative—both in our personal lives and in the world.

Why This Matters Now

This year, more than ever, we must tell the stories of those who have dared to take risks and shape destiny. This is not a time to shrink back—it is a time to build spiritual, mental, and emotional resilience so that we can make powerful choices for ourselves and for the good of others.

In honor of Women’s History Month, I’ll be hosting inspired conversations on my YouTube Channel and Instagram Live, featuring incredible women who are stepping into their power and making a difference. I invite you to tune in, be inspired, and gather the tools to strengthen your own resilience.

Are You Ready to Reclaim Your Strength?

If you’re feeling burnt out, anxious, or searching for deeper meaning and belonging, I’m here to help. My private sessions and group rituals are designed to guide you through this threshold—helping you reconnect with your inner wisdom, navigate uncertainty, and step into your highest potential.

And don’t forget that we are having a lunar eclipse on March 14th and Mercury goes retrograde on the 15th. Slow down and back everything up!

Let’s work together—book a session or join an upcoming event.
It’s time to move from fear to power, from exhaustion to renewal. Let’s begin.

With love & resilience,
Barbara

Uncertain About the Future? Let’s Shape It Together

“The best thing you can do is to get very good at being you.” — Dennis the Menace

When I graduated college, I was offered my dream job in Rome. Ten days before I was supposed to leave, the job was canceled. I was devastated, but something deep within urged me to go anyway. With the small amount of money I had, I packed my bags and embarked on a journey that changed my life. Trusting my intuition led me to incredible opportunities: working in film, meeting lifelong friends, and eventually moving to London.

What I learned from that experience is this: when we limit how we think we’ll receive, we might miss out on the unexpected gifts the Universe is offering us.

Memories from our last in-person VISION workshop

This lesson reminds me of a favorite story:

The man whispered, “God, speak to me,” and a meadowlark sang.
But the man didn’t hear.
He shouted, “God, show me a miracle!” and a life was born.
But the man didn’t notice.
He cried, “Touch me, God, and let me know you are here!”
Whereupon, God reached down and touched the man with a butterfly.
But the man brushed it away and walked on.
—Author Unknown

As we face uncertainty in our world today—politically, environmentally, and personally—this story reminds us to remain open to guidance, connection, and possibility.

This is the heart of Vision 2025: Shape Your Destiny. Learn more here.

With love,
Barbara

Saved by Intuition: My Story of Trusting the Inner Voice

I was planning an in-person Vision Workshop in Malibu for January 10th and 11th. The venue was perfect, and I had plenty of support. Everything seemed aligned—until it wasn’t.

As the date approached, I began to sense that something wasn’t flowing. A quiet but persistent voice in my mind kept urging me to postpone the workshop. At first, I resisted. How could I cancel something I had put so much effort into? But after a heartfelt conversation with my close friend Heide, I realized that this wasn’t the right time.

I trusted my intuition and canceled the event. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Had I gone ahead with my plans, I would have been in Pacific Palisades during one of the most devastating wildfires California has ever seen. The workshop in Malibu would have been canceled anyway, and I could have been in real danger.

This experience reinforced a powerful lesson: learning to trust and develop our intuition isn’t just a personal practice—it’s a vital skill.

Right now, we’re all facing so much uncertainty—mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially. It’s easy to feel unsafe or overwhelmed by the unknown. That’s why I believe it’s more important than ever to come together in community, to hold space for one another with compassion and care.

When we gather in spiritual community, we create a strong container for healing, support, and re-visioning our lives. By tending to the parts of ourselves that feel fragile and finding strength in connection, we can begin the process of moving forward. Life is precious, and we need each other now more than ever.

If your heart is calling you to reflect, heal, and reimagine your future, I invite you to join me for VISION 2025 on January 24th and 25th. You can attend in person in New York City or online via Zoom. Together, let’s create a powerful space to access the spiritual support we need to navigate these times and re-vision our lives with purpose and clarity. Visit the Events page for more information.

Until next time,
Barbara

A Personal Story + Ritual for Overcoming Fear

Many years ago as I was standing on the top of a hill, in Aspen Colorado,  I looked down at the tent classrooms set up for the various workshops taking place for John Denver’s symposium Choices for the Future.  I was told that my space was down the hill to the right. Slowly I walked down the hill feeling more and more anxiety. It was my first big event and I was on the program with amazing and accomplished speakers such as former Vice President Al Gore and Chief Oren Lyons.

There was a huge circle of chairs set up for my presentation. I could feel the pressure to be successful intensify. After checking the microphone, I sat down to prepare for my talk. My heart was beating out of control, my hands were clammy, and my mouth was as dry as grains of sand. I felt like I was losing it! Totally out of control. I felt like throwing up. It was just what I wanted and worked for. So, why did I feel sick to my stomach?

I saw people begin to walk down the hill, but then turned to join other workshops. I began to panic. What if no one came? The organizers would think I was a failure. No one would ever invite me to speak again. Why did I say I would come here?

Then a strong voice inside me told me to ground to the earth. I did a grounding ritual that I had been taught by a Native American Shaman. 

I slowly imagined a grounding chord leaving the base of my spine  moving deep into the Earth. It began to root like a large tree. I could feel the roots spreading out going deep into the earth and connecting me with the heart of Mother Earth. The roots turned silver and gold and began to vibrate with a powerful energy. All my anxiety dropped down through the roots into the earth. It was as if I unplugged a stuck pipe.

Then I began to breathe up this warm, solid, grounded earth energy.  I could feel it moving up through my roots, warm brown earth energy. It moved up into the soles of my feet, up my legs and thighs, filling my entire body.

Slowly I began to feel supported…knowing I was not alone. I became clearer and calmer. I opened my eyes and asked Spirit for a sign. Just as I finished praying I saw an eagle circling over me. That is when I knew Spirit was guiding me. No, I am not making this up. 

Hearing footsteps, I turned around and saw groups of women coming down the hill towards me. It was as if I was a magnet, and they were being pulled into the circle. By the time we started we had almost 75 amazing women of all ages in our circle.

What came to me that day (a recurring theme that would later play out in a variety of ways) was the realization that stepping into something new made me feel vulnerable and unsure of myself.  I was supremely confident in my old role, but now that I was being called to be “bigger” I felt like a young kid on her first day at a new school.  I suddenly had to prove myself to myself again, and that critical voice in my head was filling my mind with negative chatter.

I used this as a teaching moment and shared it with the group. The response was overwhelming. As I shared my own vulnerability, it created a safe space and gave permission for others to express their deepest fears and blocks.

In this time of major change and transition, naming and sharing our concerns with each other, then participating in rituals that ground and center us is a key to moving forward. These practices help us center ourselves and find the strength to move forward.

For this reason, I am thrilled to announce that I will be launching a new course, Rituals for Change and Transition (working title), this Fall. This course is designed to provide you with the tools you need to create meaningful rituals for yourself and your community.

I welcome any specific topics you'd like to see covered in the course, so please don't hesitate to reach out with your suggestions (simply reply to this email). Additionally, I am available for one-on-one and group rituals to support your journey.

Until next time,
Barbara

The Power of 8 Minutes: A Lesson in True Support 👐

In a world bustling with distractions, it's easy to overlook the quiet cries for help hidden behind a facade of "I'm okay." Yet, as Simon Sinek eloquently illustrates in a recent video shared by my friend Catherine, sometimes all it takes is eight minutes to make a world of difference.

Sinek recounts a poignant story about a friend navigating turbulent waters, unbeknownst to him. It wasn't until she mustered the courage to reveal her struggles that he realized the depth of her pain. Together, they devised a simple yet profound code: "Do you have 8 minutes?" A beacon of vulnerability amidst the noise, this phrase became a lifeline, signaling the need for genuine connection and support.

Reflecting on this, I couldn't help but recall a moment of my own vulnerability. When I found myself alone in the emergency room after a bike accident, broken wrist throbbing with pain, I brushed off offers of company with a dismissive "I'm okay." In truth, I longed for the comfort of a friend's presence, a shoulder to lean on in the midst of uncertainty.

How often do we mask our true emotions behind the veil of stoicism, denying ourselves the solace we so desperately crave? How many times have we uttered those two deceptive words, "I'm okay," when our hearts are heavy with unspoken burdens?

But what if we dared to break the silence? What if, instead of feigning strength, we extended an invitation for genuine connection? "Do you have 8 minutes?" A simple question, yet laden with the weight of authenticity and vulnerability. Eight minutes to listen, to empathize, to share in the rawness of human experience.

So let us embrace the power of eight minutes—a testament to the profound impact of true support. Let us pledge to look beyond the surface, to heed the silent cries for help that echo in the spaces between words. And let us remember that, in a world starved for connection, sometimes all it takes is eight minutes to change a life.

Until next time,
Barbara

Let's Build Bridges, Not Walls

With the world so at war with each other, I thought it was time to share this story.

Once upon a time two brothers who lived on adjoining farms fell into conflict. It was the first serious rift in 40 years of farming side by side, sharing machinery, and trading labor and goods as needed without a hitch.

Then the long collaboration fell apart. It began with a small misunderstanding, and it grew into a major difference, and finally it exploded into an exchange of bitter words followed by weeks of silence.

One morning there was a knock-on John’s door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter’s toolbox. “I’m looking for a few days’ work” he said. “Perhaps you would have a few small jobs here and there I could help with? Could I help you?”

“Yes,” said the older brother. “I do have a job for you. Look across the creek at that farm. That’s my neighbor, in fact, it’s my younger brother. Last week there was a meadow between us and he took his bulldozer to the river levee and now there is a creek between us.

Well, he may have done this to spite me, but I’ll go him one better. See that pile of lumber by the barn? I want you to build me a fence — an 8-foot fence — so I won’t need to see his place or his face anymore.”

The carpenter said, “I think I understand the situation. Show me the nails and the post-hole digger and I’ll be able to do a job that pleases you.”

The older brother had to go to town, so he helped the carpenter get the materials ready and then he was off for the day. The carpenter worked hard all that day measuring, sawing, and nailing. About sunset when the farmer returned, the carpenter had just finished his job.

The farmer’s eyes opened wide; his jaw dropped. There was no fence there at all. It was a bridge — a bridge stretching from one side of the creek to the other! 

A fine piece of work handrails and all — and the neighbor, his younger brother, was coming across, his hand outstretched. “You are quite a fellow to build this bridge after all I’ve said and done.” The two brothers stood at each end of the bridge, and then they met in the middle, taking each other’s hand. 

They turned to see the carpenter hoist his toolbox on his shoulder. “No, wait! Stay a few days. I’ve a lot of other projects for you,” said the older brother. “I’d love to stay on,” the carpenter said, “but, I have many more bridges to build.”

—Author Unknown

Let us remember that we are all living on this planet together. Our actions impact the environment and each other. 

As we focus on making this Earth a better place to live, let us build bridges  not fences.

PS: Make sure to check out my Upcoming Events.

Until next time,
Barbara

Stories About Women's Courage and Purim Rituals 🌺

When I was a kid, I used to love to dress up as Queen Esther for the holiday of Purim. I don’t think I really understood how courageous she really was. And I never understood how incredible Queen Vashti was.

Queen Vashti, the first character introduced in the story, displayed remarkable courage and leadership when she refused to follow the King’s orders, which she found degrading. Wanting to impress his guest with his wealth and beautiful wife, he orders her to display herself wearing only her royal crown. Women were expected to follow the decisions of their husbands and not complain (still going on today). She said “no way!”

Because of her actions, she was banished (possibly executed) and lost her position as Queen. In an act unheard of at the time, she modeled standing up for herself, even at great personal risk, King Achashverosh then arranged a beauty pageant to find a new queen. Encouraged by her uncle Mordechai, a Jewish girl named Esther reluctantly entered and won the contest and became the new queen, but she hid her nationality.

Meanwhile, the Jew-hating Haman was appointed Prime Minister of the Empire. Mordechai, the leader of the Jews, refused to bow to Haman, which was in defiance of the royal decree. Haman was furious, and he persuaded the King to issue a decree ordering the destruction of all the Jews.

Mordechai urged Esther to confront the King and inform him of Haman’s plans. Esther, although reluctant at first for fear of her life, agreed. As a woman, she was essentially powerless, but by using her beauty, charm, and intelligence, and by courageously taking a great risk, she revealed her Jewish identity to the King and accused Haman of attempting to destroy her people. 

Haman was hanged, Mordechai was appointed Prime Minister in his stead, and a new decree was issued, granting the Jews the right to defend themselves against their enemies.

Let us celebrate the Esthers and Vashtis of today: women who speak out because they know it is the right thing to do; who identify suffering and bring it to the public eye; who commit to awareness and education. We honor those who take risks and put themselves on the line.

TRY THESE PURIM TRADITIONS
 

There are two traditions central to the observance of Purim:

1. Giving money to the poor
2. Giving gifts to our neighbors.

The intention is to build community and connection - and create a spirit  of generosity and responsibility.

Work with Barbara: Spiritual Alignment For Wellness & Wellbeing

Do you feel it is time to explore new ways of being in the world but are not sure how? It is time to step into the greatness that you were meant to be.

Find clarity through a tarot reading >>

Clear, cleanse and heal your energetic field personally and the spaces you live and work in with a space clearing / blessing >>

Learn practical techniques to clear out limiting blocks, cleanse your energy field and hook up to a higher frequency of wisdom and intelligence through monthly rituals and coaching >>

Celebrate and set intention for all of life’s transitions through powerful rituals >>

Until next time,
Barbara

How Would You Pass This "Surprise Test"❔

Every day this summer I've become more and more aware of what sucks my joy and what takes my attention off what's really important. I am consciously making choices based on living in the now and allowing Spirit to truly live through me.

It’s easy to waste time of all that you’ve been led to believe matters, because the truth is that much of it simply doesn't.

This beautiful story says it all.

One day, a professor entered his classroom and asked his students to prepare for a surprise test. They all waited anxiously at their desks for the exam to begin. The professor handed out the exams with the text facing down, as usual. Once he handed them all out, he asked the students to turn over the papers.

To everyone’s surprise, there were no questions–just a black dot in the center of the paper. The professor, seeing the expression on everyone’s faces, told them the following: “I want you to write about what you see there.”

The students, confused, got started on the inexplicable task. At the end of the class, the professor took all the exams and started reading each one of them out loud in front of all the students. All of them, with no exception, defined the black dot, trying to explain its position in the center of the sheet.

After all had been read, the classroom silent, the professor started to explain: “I’m not going to grade you on this, I just wanted to give you something to think about. No one wrote about the white part of the paper. Everyone focused on the black dot – and the same thing happens in our lives.

However, we insist on focusing only on the black dot – the health issues that bother us, the lack of money, the complicated relationship with a family member, the disappointment with a friend. The dark spots are very small when compared to everything we have in our lives, but they are the ones that pollute our minds. Take your eyes away from the black dots in your lives. Enjoy each one of your blessings, each moment that life gives you. Be happy and live a life filled with love!”

Author Unknown

Until next time,
Barbara

Take Back Your Power ⛰️

As I continue on my path of healing, I am hyper aware of the challenges everyone is going through. Some of my friends and clients have health challenges, others are dealing with releasing ancestral patterns, others are focusing on relationship issues, and many are just rethinking and reimagining their future.

This story always inspired me, and I want to share it with you.

In 1955, Emma “Grandma” Gatewood told her children that she was “going for a hike in the woods”– which turned out to be the entire 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail (A.T.), the longest hiking-only footpath in the world.

At the time she was 67 years old, a mother of 11, a grandmother of 23, and a survivor of more than 30 years of domestic abuse. For Emma, the woods were a source of comfort and an escape from the abuse she suffered at the hands of her husband.

Wearing Kids sneakers and carrying a few items like a poncho, a blanket, some food, and a knife, she walked with her home-made duffel over her shoulder. Without a tent or sleeping bag (she used a shower curtain for shelter), she chose to spend the night on nearby farms or off the trail, eating whatever she could find or relying on the kindness of strangers.

On September 25, 1955, she became the first woman ever to complete the entire A.T. alone in one season. And, by the way, she did it twice! A portrait of resilience, Gatewood broke barriers in the outdoors, sending the message that “If those men can do it, I can do it”

For Gatewood, the decision to hike the A.T. was rather simple – she ignored any barriers and anyone who told her she wouldn’t be able to do it. When one reporter asked why she wanted to hike the A.T., Gatewood stated: “Because I wanted to.“

To find out more, read Grandma Gatewood’s Walk: The inspiring Story of the Woman Who Saved the Appalachian Trail by Ben Montgomery.

Until next time,
Barbara

A Lesson For Being A Role Model

With all the horrific news out in the world, I wanted to share something positive.

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and a four-year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together nightly at the dinner table. But the elderly grandfather's shaky hands and failing sight made eating rather difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor. When he grasped the glass often milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do something about grandfather," said the son. I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor.

So, the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner at the dinner table. Since grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. Sometimes when the family glanced in grandfather's direction, he had a tear in his eye as he ate alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am making a little bowl for you and mama to eat your food from when I grow up." The four-year-old smiled and went back to work. The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done. That evening the husband took grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table.

For the remainder of his days, he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.

Children are remarkably perceptive. Their eyes ever observe, their ears ever listen, and their minds ever process the messages they absorb. If they see us patiently provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives. The wise parent realizes that every day that building blocks are being laid for the child's future.

Let us all be wise builders and role models. Take care of yourself, ... and those you love, ... today, and every day!

Until next time,
Barbara

What Inspired Me to Pay Forward Kindness 🌈

Wednesday evening, I went to a Native Son Event at Bloomingdales hosted by Emil Wilbekin. I left feeling happy and upbeat. On the way home I made a quick stop at Whole Foods then came home to chill.

An hour later, I went to make a call and….no phone. I looked everywhere. I even tried “find my phone” but realized I had never turned it on. I was not happy.

Then my friend Joanne called me on my landline and told me she had called my cell and a man answered who only spoke Spanish. She told me to call him asap. I did and his sister (who spoke more English) told me that he worked at Whole Foods and found the phone after the store had closed. He didn’t live in Manhattan and wasn’t going to be back until Friday morning. We set a time to meet early Friday and I sent a prayer of thanks to my angels.

Friday morning, I met Jose and he gave me back my phone.

So, for those of you who are only focusing on all the bad in the world, remember that there are still good people out there. And turn on your “find my phone”.

Because I was gifted with such kindness and generosity, I want to pay it forward so am offering a 20% discount on all rituals and readings through June 30th, 2022, with code KINDNESS20 at checkout (rituals and readings must be claimed within 60 days from the date of purchase).

Work with me:

It is time to upgrade yourself and your environment, not just your devices. Rituals and certain spiritual practices can change the way the neurons in our brains and hearts connect. Barbara uses these to provide comfort, healing, strength, and inner power in challenging times.

Let me support you to clear energy blocks, integrate practical spiritual tools into your life, and take action that will create a positive difference in your life.

Here’s What Clients Are Saying:

“Barbara has helped me clear negative energy and focus positive energy in my life. I am creating the vision and life of my dreams. Her ritual and meditation work are transformative.” -Emil Wilbekin, Founder, Native Son

"Barbara did a space clearing at Sloomoo Institute, cleansing the energy of COVID and inviting in a fresh, healthy, new energy of abundance and joy. We literally sold out every weekend since and it has been truly beautiful - our guests have been full of pure happiness!" -Karen Robinovitz, Co-Founder at Sloomoo Institute

“Barbara changed my life with her readings and serves as a guiding force through my many chapters. She's allowed me to brilliantly navigate tricky corporate dynamics, excel in my personal life, and gain the confidence to take big leaps that have led to such bountiful outcomes. I tell everyone that they MUST go see Barbara. She changed my life, and she can change yours!” -LAR, Entrepreneur

I am available for in-person and online Tarot Readings, Coaching, to officiate weddings, fertility rituals, baby blessings, ancestral clearing, new home and business rituals and space clearings.

Until next time,
Barbara

My Personal Father's Day Ritual 👨‍👧‍👦

All Full moons bring change and transformation and this one in Sagittarius is reminding us that all people and experiences that come into our lives are opportunities to learn and grow into the person we are meant to be.

As we approach Father’s Day in the USA, know that your relationship (or lack of one) with your father can trigger many emotions. If healing is called for, I highly encourage you to reach out for help.

Like many men of his generation, my father took care of his family financially, but was emotionally distant. I know at times I feel a longing to have had the kind of father who supported me unconditionally, encouraged my growth and taught me the practical tools necessary to thrive in the world.

Well, that didn't happen. I am smart enough (and have had enough therapy and spiritual teachers) to know that he did the best he could with the resources he had.

Shortly after my Dad passed, I went into the woods with my brother to do a letting go ritual. I wanted to "bury the hatchet " between us and for some bizarre reason my brother actually had my father's hatchet. (Why a man from Great Neck and South Florida had a hatchet is beyond my understanding). So, I physically buried it. My brother had a different issue. He no longer wanted to "walk in my father's footsteps" so he buried one of my father's shoes. I can't tell you how liberating that ritual was for both of us.

My brother Mark and many others that I know model the new masculine and have taken on the role of nurturer. He has very few "have tos" and has plenty of "want tos." Today children are growing up with a new model of a father: Someone who simply does what needs to be done without worrying about gender roles.

This Sunday I personally will be lighting a candle for my father -- letting myself feel the sadness of his passing and what could have been.

My ritual on Father’s Day is to eat one of his favorite foods. This year it may be Chinese soup or a piece of halvah. I also plan on writing down a list of what I learned from him and what qualities I want to claim as my own. After all, it is my inheritance.

Whatever you decide to do for this holiday, enjoy the celebration and the fathers and father figures you cherish. As my brother Mark, a father of three, so wisely said to me, "The best present for me is always feeling loved, included, and appreciated. Gifts are quite secondary."

Until next time,
Barbara

How to Make a Difference in the World 🌎

It is easy to feel overwhelmed and not sure of what you can do in this chaotic time of ours. Like you, I keep asking myself, what can I do to make a real difference in the world? As I was pondering this question, a story popped up into my mind and I want to share it with you.

Once a man was walking along a beach. The sun was shining, and it was a beautiful day. Off in the distance, he could see a person going back and forth between the surf’s edge and the beach. Back and forth this person went. As the man approached, he could see that there were hundreds of starfish stranded on the sand as the result of the natural action of the tide.

The man was struck by the apparent futility of the task. There were far too many starfish. Many of them were sure to perish. As he approached, the person continued the task of picking up starfish one by one and throwing them into the surf.

As he came up to the person, he said: “You must be crazy. There are thousands of miles of beach covered with starfish. You can’t possibly make a difference.” The person looked at the man. She then stooped down and pick up one more starfish and threw it back into the ocean. She then looked back to the man and said: “It sure made a difference to that one!”

– Author unknown

After writing this, I was walking near Union Square when something got caught in my throat. I started choking. A guy on a bike pulled up to me and asked if I was ok and if I needed help. I didn’t, but that act of kindness made my day.

Until next time,
Barbara

Are You Living Your Truth?

Today my friend Lavinia told me that during her morning meditation, she received guidance to change her plans for the summer. And she decided to follow her intuition. I love that she has the courage to be in her truth and follow her guidance.

During this Mercury Retrograde Period (and many of you notice how volatile it is) we must be grounded in the moment, be aware of our current reality (one of the main competencies of emotional intelligence) and be willing to be flexible and change plans.

One of the stories told of Mahatma Gandhi, was that he started to lead a march to protest against the British and after a few days he saw that it was going to have some bad consequences… so he stopped the march.

People came up to him and said, "Mahatma Ji you can’t do this, people left their jobs, they left their homes and they’re taking great risks to follow you. You can’t stop now."

And Gandhi replied: "I’m only human I don’t understand all. My understanding of truth changes from day to day. My commitment is to truth not to consistency… I’m sorry if that upsets you."

Think about it. If your security is based on being who you thought you were supposed to be and now Spirit is nudginung you in another direction, can you allow yourself to let go of the old and move into the unknown? Do you dare to shift course? Is your commitment to consistency greater than your commitment to truth?

Until next time,
Barbara

Whoever Tells the Best Story Wins 🏆

This Mercury Retrograde/eclipse is bringing up a lot of old stories for everyone. This morning as I was sharing one of my limiting stories (it has to do with love relationships), my friend Heide, a well-respected relationship expert, told me she has been sharing stories with her group of friends weekly.

“I love the one about “other people’s lives are so much happier than mine” or “the aging story”, she laughed.

It kind of feels like binge watching Netflix…once you get started you keep watching more and more even if you don’t like the characters or story line. And boy can we get sucked into the emotions of limitations and fear.

The bottom line is we all have the power to change the stories we tell ourselves. Stories can stop or motivate us. They can change our behavior and change the action steps we take (or don’t take).

This eclipse season is urging us to notice our stories and see which ones are serving us and supporting us to move forward. And like my friend Heide, having a sense of humor is key.

Let us remember the Native American parable:

A Cherokee grandfather is teaching his grandson about life. “A fight is going on inside me,” he said to the boy. “It is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves. One is evil – he is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.”

He continued, “The other is good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you – and inside every other person, too.”

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

Until next time,
Barbara

Overcoming Divisiveness: A Story Of Freedom And Resurrection 🕊️

Happy Passover and Easter to those of you who celebrate! I thought this was the perfect story to share this Holy Week of freedom and resurrection.

Once upon a time, two brothers who lived on adjoining farms fell into conflict. It was the first serious rift in 40 years of farming side-by-side,sharing machinery and trading labor and goods as needed without a hitch.

Then the long collaboration fell apart. It began with a small misunderstanding and it grew into a major difference and finally, it exploded into an exchange of bitter words followed by weeks of silence.

One morning there was a knock on John's door. He opened it to find a man with a carpenter's toolbox: "I'm looking for a few days' work," he said. "Perhaps you would have a few small jobs here and there I could help with? Could I help you?"

"Yes," said the older brother. "I do have a job for you. Look across the creek at that farm. That's my neighbor. In fact, it's my younger brother!

Last week there was a meadow between us. He recently took his bulldozer to the river levee and now there is a creek between us. Well, he may have done this to spite me, but I'll do him one better. See that pile of lumber by the barn? I want you to build me an 8-foot fence – so I won't need to see his place or his face anymore."

The carpenter said, "I think I understand the situation. Show me the nails and the post-hole digger and I'll be able to do a job that pleases you."

The older brother had to go to town, so he helped the carpenter get the materials ready and then he was off for the day. The carpenter worked hard all that day – measuring, sawing and nailing. About sunset when the farmer returned, the carpenter had just finished his job. The farmer's eyes opened wide, his jaw dropped.

There was no fence there at all.

It was a bridge... A bridge that stretched from one side of the creek to the other! A fine piece of work, handrails and all! And the neighbor, his younger brother, was coming toward them, his hand outstretched..

"You are quite a fellow to build this bridge after all I've said and done."

The two brothers stood at each end of the bridge, and then they met in the middle, taking each other's hand. They turned to see the carpenter hoist his toolbox onto his shoulder.

"No, wait! Stay a few days. I've a lot of other projects for you," said the older brother.

"I'd love to stay on," the carpenter said, "but I have many more bridges to build".

This week journal on the following questions:

1. What bridges do you want to build?

2. How can you soften your heart?

3. What holds you in bondage so that you do not experience freedom?

4. What needs to be resurrected in your life?

Until next time,
Barbara

A True Story of an Act of Kindness That Had a Ripple Effect

You never know how what you do can change a life… or lives.

Last week I went to the opening of Plaza Suite starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick. Sitting in front of me was the director/playwright Eric Rosen and his actor husband Claybourne Elder. Eric is the son of one of my dear friends Susan Rosen and it was the first time I had seen him in person in years.

Of course, I immediately reached out to Susan to share this small world moment and she told me something wonderful that I want to share with you.

Fifteen years ago, Claybourne Elder had just come to NYC from Utah to make it as a Broadway actor. Because he didn’t have much money, he bought a standing room only ticket to see "Putnam County Spelling Bee.”

A man and woman came up to him and asked him if he was from out of town. Clay replied, ‘Yeah, I'm just here visiting.' The man handed him $200 and said, 'You looked like you were having more fun than the people in the expensive seats. Go buy yourself a ticket to "Sweeney Todd" tomorrow. It'll change your life.”

The next day Clay bought "a great seat" in the mezzanine. And the star of that show was the legendary Patti LuPone.

Fast forward to today. LuPone is now his co-star in the hit musical "Company" — a twist of fate that goes back to the stranger who gave him the means to watch one of Broadway's biggest productions.

During Covid, Clay decided he wanted to give back to those who couldn’t afford to pay for a Broadway ticket. He started giving away free tickets to his show through social media. When he shared the backstory, people reached out to donate money, giving close to $10,000. Over 850 people have received tickets paid for by a stranger. To follow him on IG @claybourneelder

And to make this even better, he found the stranger who started it all…Mark Howell, who lives in Los Angeles.

Remember that each act of kindness can have a ripple effect. Each one of us has the power to make this world better.

Until next time,
Barbara

My Prayer For You 🙏

Sunday I met my friend Agapi for lunch, and we were discussing her new book, Speaking With Spirit: 52 Prayers to Guide, Inspire, and Uplift you. Agapi shared with me a pivotal time in her life when she was going through a challenging time. At a New Year’s Eve retreat, instead of sharing his wishes for the year, her spiritual teacher John Roger began praying for her. For the first time in ages, she felt seen, acknowledged, and loved.

At that moment, a light bulb went off. I realized that I always pray for others no matter what the situation, but when I ask others to pray for me, I only ask for prayers for potentially life-threatening situations like going into surgery, or life altering events like the death of a loved one. Occasionally, I will ask for prayers before doing a super important event like being on network television or teaching a large workshop.

What I don’t do is ask for prayers for myself that involve nurturing my inner child or taking my teachings out into the world with abundance, support, and joy. In other words, the day-to-day things that make up my life.

As I shared that aha with Agapi, she took my hands in hers and began to pray for me. Tears filled my eyes and I felt cushioned in the energy of that love and caring.

As Agapi says in her book, “Let us never underestimate the power of our prayers to help us support one another.”

My prayer for you as we enter this new season and energetic New Year.

Mother Father God,

I ask that all who read this be able to release into the Light all feelings of overwhelm, hurt, fear, anxiety, anger, and sadness. May their hearts be open to compassion and love knowing that violence is never the best recourse.

I call forth the Power of Divine Love to be magnified within our hearts and world daily.

May all connect with all the people, projects and support they require to walk this spiritual path with practical feet.

I ask for this for the highest good of all concerned.

So be it.

Work with me:

Let me be your guide as we walk into this new future together.

>> Book a reading to connect you to wisdom available to you.
>> Book a ritual to let go of the old mindset and bring in the new vision or simply to celebrate a joyous occasion.
>> Book a coaching package—plug into your truest self with new tools to navigate the tsunami of energy and uncertainty in the world.

Until next time,
Barbara

Amazing Acts of Kindness and Spring Equinox 🌸

Although the news is full of war and chaos, Nature, once again, celebrates the promise of infinite new possibilities as we enter the Spring Equinox this Saturday in the northern Hemisphere.

I had planned on writing about the rituals of The Spring Equinox today, however I saw an article this morning that my friend Diana posted on Facebook that made me change my mind and go in another direction.

The headline read, “Moms in Poland left their baby strollers in rail road stations for the Ukrainian moms that fled carrying their children.” This made me think about all the random acts of kindness that we are seeing amid the horrors of war and destruction.

At the Polish Border, people have come out to offer food, transportation, and a free place to stay.

Germans have welcomed refugees with flowers, toys for the children and a bed to stay in.

Romanians have come out in droves to welcome and help refugees.

Ukraine also borders Hungary, where volunteers from Khalsa Aid, a UK-based, Sikh run humanitarian relief organization are offering food to student refugees.

Even those who aren’t anywhere near Ukraine, or its borders are finding ways to help. Travelers have been booking Airbnbs in Ukraine (which they have no hope of staying in) as a way of sending money to locals. The idea was shared by a Twitter user and just hours after they posted hundreds of people had got in.

Now is the time to access what David Brooks calls our eulogy virtues…. How well do you love? Whom do you serve? When do you show character, conscience, compassion, and simple kindness?

I suggest that we use this Spring Equinox to do whatever we can to share love, peace, and hope for the world. And, if you can, donate to your favorite organization to help those in need.

Until next time,
Barbara

Advice for Dealing With Anxiety and Fear

Monday on Ask the Oracles, Jeff Pulver, Monte Farber, Amy Zerner, and I were talking about love. Amy mentioned that Marianne Williamson had posted that A Course in Miracles says you either choose love or fear.

This reminded me of the old Cherokee story of the two wolves.

A young boy went to his grandfather for advice. The grandson was troubled and wanted help to deal with his anxiety and fear.

“There are two wolves inside of you," the grandfather told the young boy.

“One is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, arrogance, self-pity, false pride and fear. The other is joy, peace, love, hope, kindness, empathy, generosity, truth, and faith. “A fight is going on inside of you,” he said.

“Grandfather, which wolf will win?” asked the boy.
The old Cherokee smiled and simply said, "The one you feed".

Yet in another version of this story, the old Cherokee simply replied, “If you feed them right, they both win.”

It is important to acknowledge all our feelings and see their hidden value. Maybe your anger has motivated you to start a foundation to help abused children, or your fear pushed you to discover new ways to deal with anxiety and overwhelm.

How you deal with your shadow can help bring you to a place of peace and wisdom. Then you can truly make conscious choices. Each choice you make creates your future. Choose wisely.

Until next time,
Barbara