Purple Rain on Earth Day

Friday, April 22, 2016
"Purple rain, purple rain....I only want to see you underneath the purple rain."

I heard the news yesterday afternoon with nostalgia--remembering his amazing vocal range, Prince was at times unbelievable to me, magic. He is an amazing example of someone who broke stereotypes and refused labels and in the process gave his audience an intimate performance of music. His lyrics are so poetic, my heart was won at an early age.

Yesterday, I went on with my day and in the evening, I noticed I had a heavy-heart, very unlike me, and as I did my evening chores, I couldn't quite put my finger on it; then one of my Tahoe moms sent a text:

"Are you sad that Prince died?"

Yes, yes indeed I am.  I hummed Purple Rain most of the day and realized we lost a holy one who knew he was in his element when he was singing--he exuded that in his voice, in his flowy actions, in his impact. When we are in our groove, Momma Earth sends that vibration out to the four corners and beyond--we strike chords within the hearts of many and that precious gift lives beyond form.
Honey, I know, I know I know times are changing
It's time we all reach out for something new,  that means you too...                                 let me guide you to the purple rain 
RIP, sweet Prince.

(Re)Birth of O Mio Babbino Caro

Tuesday, April 12, 2016
Watch Amira's performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWpLfncliwU 
Happy Spring, Beautifuls! April's Inner Constellation theme is "birth." One of the most prominent appearances of new beginnings is the introduction to Amira Willighagen from Holland. She is this month's inspirational figure for the IC Freedom Series category of this blog--a person who has the influence to orient others in the direction of True North. Words can't do justice in describing this amazing young person...so without further ado, please sit back and enjoy a treat....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWpLfncliwU

Teaching oneself to sing opera via YouTube, really? Have you ever attempted to sing opera? Perhaps you can sing beautifully too! Without any preconceived notion of failure, Amira, age 6 at the time, begins...and listen to what is born--a voice "so pure and so beautiful," as remarked by one of those who truly heard. Amira is a poster child for turning toward what inspires, what is wholesome and beautiful and allowing whatever it is to move through you and become a vehicle of expression--perhaps this is one definition of birth. Her talent is not hers alone, however (thanks to YouTube (!), grandma Elsa who listened and encouraged, her parents, violinist brother who inspired her, Holland's Got Talent, the Golden Ticket). The interbeing nature of all the bright North Stars who influenced Amira's young life are many.  

In the month of April, what will you encourage to move through you? Spring time holds the energy of the earth as it is reborn--growth is unstoppable as it moves up and out, gifting us with its expression in the form of green grass, flowers, newborns and the voice of an angel....

Here's a link to Amira Willighagen's Album on YouTube if more infusion is needed:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFDE5hDtTo&list=PL4dWT5w6l2Q2RI7bcS1LhPgvipYglXlhh

May you have a blessed spring, inspired by beauty, peace and happiness.