Stone Medicine

So many of us say to ourselves that we wish we could do more, give more time, give more money, help others more, etc. Your desires and ideals are very important, whether you want to save the environment, protect animals, feed the hungry, protest the war, promote your favorite political candidate, or aid the homeless. The things that get in your way, the obstacles, are valid as well. Work, family, or physical challenges, just to name a few, are also very real priorities. Why not find room or re-prioritize our lives so that we can act? What things in your life could you alter or adjust so that you can "Think globally, act locally, and begin with personal change"? You and you alone have the power to make these small, yet crucial life changes that will have a positive impact on the world.

This morning I asked a friend if she had any obstacles that prevent her from doing more. She replied that she often feels that because she's only one person, her actions wouldn't make much of a difference. We discussed this further and she began to realize that change can't happen unless each individual begins to make a change.

One way to begin making a change is in your conversations with family or friends. For many years I felt shy about telling my friends about my passion for trees and forests. I was worried they would label me as "tree hugger" and not take me seriously. I was wrong. As I have opened up more about my passions and desires, I have found that more doors have opened for me. For example, many years ago I confided my personal spiritual beliefs with my spirit-sister Connie, and she introduced me to the spiritual world I now live and thrive in. I told my dear friend Karen about my challenges with composting and she shared how she did it and gave me more information that enabled me to create an active composting/recycling system in my home. And finally, since I related my passion for the environment to my friend Peggy, she has been an angel, introducing me to Circle of Life and taking me to events like this week's Environmental Awards. By sharing more, I am able to experience more. Frequently, if I share my experience with an obstacle, a friend will have a wonderful solution. I learn something from every conversation.

So today I give you all a challenge. Choose three friends; share something with them that pertains to a desire you have to make a difference in your world (something that they don't know about you). Tell them what your ideal world looks like. Confide in them what your obstacles are, and I bet they will help you find some solutions. Do this in person or over the phone; these types of conversations are more rich when they are live.

Be sure to open yourself up to a wonderful and enlightening conversation. Allow a personal change to occur that will help you "Think Globally, Act Locally." I wish you all success in taking steps to becoming more globally conscious beautiful beings.

Blessings and Peace,
Renee Bastet
Stone Priestess