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Trish Bishop
Hello from Vancouver Island...or wherever I happen to be:) I'm so glad you've dropped by. Be sure to send me a note or comment on one of the blog postings. Let me know what you're thinking, feeling or whatever...Enjoy the Journey ~ Trish
Trish Bishop interviewed by ArLena Richardson for "Deeper Than the Game" Radio Show!
Click the "Play" button above to listen to this interview. I was interviewed by ArLena Richardson for her Deeper than the Game Radio Show on SpiritQuestRadio February 19! What a fantastic lady with a great energy. If you're looking for a little more insight into "me" and where I'm coming from, this is the interview you'll want to listen to - because ArLena keeps going deeper and deeper!
Enjoying the Journey! ~Trish
... << MORE >>
When Truth Resonates
I absolutely love the community that is developing around The Question Journey. What I love about it is that I've decided to share my truth with you. Who I am, without positioning my life or experiences for optimum "effect". I tell it like it is. Because one of the most powerful things I've learned in my journey is that when someone shares their truth it resonates with me- I feel that truth within me. Today's blog is proof positive that that goes both ways. That when I share my truth with others, it resonates with them as well.
The following was sent to me by Marvin Double, who has been following my blog, Newsletters and Tweets. Marvin often sends me intriguing feedback, but this one touched something inside of me as I am sure it will for many. In order for this to really make sense, I'm including the original newsletter article I wrote:
February 18 Newsletter: Are You Open to Receiving?
When someone gives you a gift for no apparent reason - what is your initial reaction? Disbelief? Wonder? Amazement? Joy? Guilt?
Too often we do not even notice our initial reaction and within a nanosecond we use our habitual reaction - whatever that might be..."Oh no, I can't accept that", "What did I do to deserve this?", "What for?", "Why are you giving me this?" and of course, for those who actually do know how to receive, "Thank You".
The more perceived value the gift has, the more difficulty we have in our ability to receive it unconditionally. And therein lies the crux - that word, "unconditional".
How often have we been bribed, tied to another or otherwise emotionally blackmailed through the use of gifts? Or perhaps you never received them and have no point of reference on which to base your reaction other than it feels "uncomfortable".
Regardless of how gifts are being offered to you, whether they carry an expectation on the part of the giver or not, if you receive them unconditionally, then that it is what it is - a gift, to you, for no other reason than that you are a child of the Universe and deserving of such. Enjoy it, allow yourself to experince the joy of feeling spoiled, treasure it and yeah, maybe even throw in a Universal Happy Dance! Tell the Universe you want more of it - because YOU deserve it! ~Trish
Marvin Double's Response:
I just finished reading your newsletter for February 18, Are You Open To Receiving? This struck a cord with me so I felt compelled to make a comment.
I'm a baby boomer, born in 1950. My parents, while not overtly religious were Baptists and clearly subscribed to the basic tenets of
Christianity. In our home the principals embodied in the so called Golden Rule were very much in evidence. Honesty and integrity were sacrosanct as was the more general concept of strength of character.
One of the more pervasive ideas, which is interwoven into this moral tapestry is the idea of self sacrifice. The idea of thinking of others first or putting others before oneself was so much a part of my family culture that it became imprinted into ones subconscious. This idea of giving to others was very much reinforced by a larger societal paradigm.
The concept of self sacrifice or putting others first was evident in such simple acts as, never taking the largest piece of cake, allowing
others to go through a door first and demonstrating ones moral certainty by being modest, retiring and self effacing.
All this comes to focus in the basic Christian theology that we are in fact imperfect having inherited so called "original sin". The subconscious message within that idea is, we are undeserving and ungrateful beings as a part of our basic nature. We can only fully
benefit from God's love if we admit this and accept salvation. In the Baptist tradition this acknowledgment is made publicly through the ritual of baptism.
For some this social and religious foundation, illustrated by parents, teachers and civil leaders, can and often does create a high degree of uncertainty as to ones personal worth. After all, the very idea that even God won't love us if we don't first admit we are flawed is a pretty powerful message.
When we are also told that self-sacrifice and putting others first is a way of gaining favor with others and God, the die is cast for many of us to go through life feeling undeserving. One need not look beyond the example that, as we are told, Jesus died for our sins, to see how the idea of self-sacrifice is used to influence our thinking and behavior.
How many of us go to the grave thinking that we haven't done enough for others to curry the favor of a righteous demanding and judgmental God? How many of us live in the long shadow cast by a deep need for parental approval?
Little wonder then, that so many of us have trouble accepting the idea that happiness and abundance are in fact the natural order of things. That accepting love as it manifests in different ways is not only OK but also part of the divine intention.
Many of us were raised in a culture of scarcity and fear. We are taught that we have no value aside from that which others bestow upon us; that we must know our place, mind our manners and never expect too much from life. It is ours then to strive and suffer and die in hope that we we be acknowledged for our humility and sacrifice.
Shifting from such thoughts into a mindset of universal love, a love which requires no such sacrifice, which need not be earned is not always easy. You're message is one which needs to be heard and taken directly to heart. Thanks very much for putting it out there for all to see.
Namaste
Marvin Double
If you'd like to receive these newsletters, CLICK HERE to subscribe.
Enjoying the Journey! ~Trish
The following was sent to me by Marvin Double, who has been following my blog, Newsletters and Tweets. Marvin often sends me intriguing feedback, but this one touched something inside of me as I am sure it will for many. In order for this to really make sense, I'm including the original newsletter article I wrote:
February 18 Newsletter: Are You Open to Receiving?
When someone gives you a gift for no apparent reason - what is your initial reaction? Disbelief? Wonder? Amazement? Joy? Guilt?
Too often we do not even notice our initial reaction and within a nanosecond we use our habitual reaction - whatever that might be..."Oh no, I can't accept that", "What did I do to deserve this?", "What for?", "Why are you giving me this?" and of course, for those who actually do know how to receive, "Thank You".
The more perceived value the gift has, the more difficulty we have in our ability to receive it unconditionally. And therein lies the crux - that word, "unconditional".
How often have we been bribed, tied to another or otherwise emotionally blackmailed through the use of gifts? Or perhaps you never received them and have no point of reference on which to base your reaction other than it feels "uncomfortable".
Regardless of how gifts are being offered to you, whether they carry an expectation on the part of the giver or not, if you receive them unconditionally, then that it is what it is - a gift, to you, for no other reason than that you are a child of the Universe and deserving of such. Enjoy it, allow yourself to experince the joy of feeling spoiled, treasure it and yeah, maybe even throw in a Universal Happy Dance! Tell the Universe you want more of it - because YOU deserve it! ~Trish
Marvin Double's Response:
I just finished reading your newsletter for February 18, Are You Open To Receiving? This struck a cord with me so I felt compelled to make a comment.
I'm a baby boomer, born in 1950. My parents, while not overtly religious were Baptists and clearly subscribed to the basic tenets of
Christianity. In our home the principals embodied in the so called Golden Rule were very much in evidence. Honesty and integrity were sacrosanct as was the more general concept of strength of character.
One of the more pervasive ideas, which is interwoven into this moral tapestry is the idea of self sacrifice. The idea of thinking of others first or putting others before oneself was so much a part of my family culture that it became imprinted into ones subconscious. This idea of giving to others was very much reinforced by a larger societal paradigm.
The concept of self sacrifice or putting others first was evident in such simple acts as, never taking the largest piece of cake, allowing
others to go through a door first and demonstrating ones moral certainty by being modest, retiring and self effacing.
All this comes to focus in the basic Christian theology that we are in fact imperfect having inherited so called "original sin". The subconscious message within that idea is, we are undeserving and ungrateful beings as a part of our basic nature. We can only fully
benefit from God's love if we admit this and accept salvation. In the Baptist tradition this acknowledgment is made publicly through the ritual of baptism.
For some this social and religious foundation, illustrated by parents, teachers and civil leaders, can and often does create a high degree of uncertainty as to ones personal worth. After all, the very idea that even God won't love us if we don't first admit we are flawed is a pretty powerful message.
When we are also told that self-sacrifice and putting others first is a way of gaining favor with others and God, the die is cast for many of us to go through life feeling undeserving. One need not look beyond the example that, as we are told, Jesus died for our sins, to see how the idea of self-sacrifice is used to influence our thinking and behavior.
How many of us go to the grave thinking that we haven't done enough for others to curry the favor of a righteous demanding and judgmental God? How many of us live in the long shadow cast by a deep need for parental approval?
Little wonder then, that so many of us have trouble accepting the idea that happiness and abundance are in fact the natural order of things. That accepting love as it manifests in different ways is not only OK but also part of the divine intention.
Many of us were raised in a culture of scarcity and fear. We are taught that we have no value aside from that which others bestow upon us; that we must know our place, mind our manners and never expect too much from life. It is ours then to strive and suffer and die in hope that we we be acknowledged for our humility and sacrifice.
Shifting from such thoughts into a mindset of universal love, a love which requires no such sacrifice, which need not be earned is not always easy. You're message is one which needs to be heard and taken directly to heart. Thanks very much for putting it out there for all to see.
Namaste
Marvin Double
If you'd like to receive these newsletters, CLICK HERE to subscribe.
Enjoying the Journey! ~Trish
Lent 2010 with Guest Blogger Melanie Love!
Last week marked the beginning of the season of Lent in the Christian world. It is 40 days long, which represents Jesus’ 40 days in the desert where he contemplated and endured temptation before
beginning his public ministry. [note: Lent is observed differently by different Christian traditions. Not having been raised “in church” per se, I myself had to go to Old Faithful – Wikipedia –
to get the details]
According to this story, Jesus went on a Question Journey of his own before stepping into his power and sharing his message for ... << MORE >>
According to this story, Jesus went on a Question Journey of his own before stepping into his power and sharing his message for ... << MORE >>
The "Lost" Generation Has it Sorted!
I did a workshop in September 2009. It was called, "Authentic Leadership - It IS All About YOU! My theory is simple:
- The "Lost" Generation (currently between 10-25) are not lost, it is us who have lost our way.
- They are not "lazy" they have all the energy in the world...to do the things that bring them joy.
- They are not "disloyal", they are absolutely loyal...to people, not things, places or organizations.
- They are not "un-motivated", they are totally motivated...to do what they want to do, not what someone else ...
QUESTION OF THE WEEK: Are you Consciously Choosing to Live?
You cannot assume that because you are breathing you are living. Choosing to live is not a passive process. Existing is passive, you can do that with barely a thought; breathe, eat, drink - you're
good.
There are very few people I know who don't ask themselves, "Isn't there something more?" If this is a question for you, then it may be time for you to decide if you're existing or truly living.
What does it mean to live?
It means that you have ... ġ Ź㻐ƊŸ&ream and your dream becomes your reality. That you make no excuses for who or what you are. That you KNOW with every fibre of your being that if you can think it, you can do it. It's an energy, a pulse that runs through your veins that makes every moment of every day an adventure.
So, what's the catch?
When you consciously choose to live you also have to take responsibility for yourself. You have to invest the time and energy necessary to understand how to tru¡ā<< MORE >>
There are very few people I know who don't ask themselves, "Isn't there something more?" If this is a question for you, then it may be time for you to decide if you're existing or truly living.
What does it mean to live?
It means that you have ... ġ Ź㻐ƊŸ&ream and your dream becomes your reality. That you make no excuses for who or what you are. That you KNOW with every fibre of your being that if you can think it, you can do it. It's an energy, a pulse that runs through your veins that makes every moment of every day an adventure.
So, what's the catch?
When you consciously choose to live you also have to take responsibility for yourself. You have to invest the time and energy necessary to understand how to tru¡ā<< MORE >>
The Question Journey Radio Show Launches February 17
(Listen to the Promo!)
I am SOOO excited! I will be launching my new radio show with CICV 98.7FM radio on February 17 at 7pm PST. You can listen online at www.cicv.ca.
We will be exploring the questions from my book, "The Question Journey" and opening up the phone lines to have callers call in and share their thoughts.
I'll see you there! Enjoying the Journey! Trish
... << MORE >>
I am SOOO excited! I will be launching my new radio show with CICV 98.7FM radio on February 17 at 7pm PST. You can listen online at www.cicv.ca.
We will be exploring the questions from my book, "The Question Journey" and opening up the phone lines to have callers call in and share their thoughts.
I'll see you there! Enjoying the Journey! Trish
... << MORE >>
Do you trust the Universe?
If you are familiar with, and use, the Law of Attraction, you know there are three simple steps.
1. Clarify your desire
2. Believe you have already achieved your desire and feel the emotions of it as if it already exists.
3. Get out of the way and allow the Universe to deliver your desire to you. I say, "Get out of the way" because HOW the Universe delivers if often outside of our ability to understand - hence, when you start to put restrictions on HOW it needs to arrive, ... << MORE >>
1. Clarify your desire
2. Believe you have already achieved your desire and feel the emotions of it as if it already exists.
3. Get out of the way and allow the Universe to deliver your desire to you. I say, "Get out of the way" because HOW the Universe delivers if often outside of our ability to understand - hence, when you start to put restrictions on HOW it needs to arrive, ... << MORE >>
Things Grow in the Dark
If you've ever suffered from a depression, whether for a few hours, days, months or even years, you know it is a very dark place. "Just think a happy thought" people tell you. The problem is, you
simply can't even remember one, let alone think about it or allow yourself the pleasure of remembering the happiness you felt. Sometimes you can be in this dark place and not even realize that is
what has happened to you until you start to become aware that you're not interested in anything at all. Nothing gets or keeps your attention. You ...
<< MORE >>
QUESTIONS
This beautiful poem was sent to me by one of my Facebook Friends (thanks Mike!) - I absolutely had to share it with you - it always amazes me the capacity of creativity we have. This poem captures
the essence of what I try to share so quickly and eloquently it literally takes my breath away!
SOMETIMES
Sometimes
if you move carefully
through the forest
breathing
like the ones
in the old stories
... << MORE >>
SOMETIMES
Sometimes
if you move carefully
through the forest
breathing
like the ones
in the old stories
... << MORE >>
Clarify Your Intentions
I hope you enjoyed your New Years' celebrations. I attended a great party with wonderful friends and we all participated in a fire ceremony to cement our intentions for 2010.
My intentions were very simple. I've heard before that I should focus on being the CEO of my life rather than the Manager. While I understood at some level what that meant, I also find it infinitely difficult to let go of 'how' something needs to look, or 'how' it should show up. I don't know if I'm just a little slow on the uptake and that's why it has taken me so long to wrap my head around this concept, or if I simply wasn't ready (I'm going for the latter - I'm not partial to seeing myself as slow, I still have some ego in tact!).
So I started by scripting a contract with the Universe, agreeing to do X in exchange for Y. Now, before I share that contract with you, I need to clarify a few things so that the wording makes sense to you.
Per my previous postings regarding the Martyr Archetype that I discovered within myself (uh-huh), I found a definition in Carolyne Myss' book, "Sacred Contracts" that said, "The Martyr is...a person who has learned to utilize a combination of service and suffering for others as the primary means of controlling and manipulating her environment."
Well, isn't that cute - NOT! However, cute or not, it was true. I wasn't a Martyr with respect to how I interacted with others, but with how I interacted with money. Sure, I'll take that job for less money and the promise of bonuses that never arrive just so I can do the work I love to do. I'd love to have your stock options, going out of business? Guess those stocks won't be worth much will they, oh well, poor me! What I was doing was controlling my environment to maintain my internal financial set point. I was not to exceed $X a year and each time I'd come close, I would find a way to sabotage it. Why? Because I knew how to live within my current financial set point, by changing it, I would have to change everything, and you know how keen we are to do that!
Now I'll share the contract and hopefully it will make sense to you.
Here's the essence of the contract:
"Dear Universe, I open myself up to the unknown reality of what it will mean when I bypass my current financial set point. I know I created it as a form of control and I hereby relinquish this control and formally request a new, significantly higher, base annual salary. I no longer have a need for a financial set point, as I intend to grow my finances exponentially.
I formally request $X per year with 60% coming as residual income and 40% from earned income. Earned income will come via work I am meant to do, that I love to do and that serves my divine purpose.
I am in service to the Universe, and given my level of skill, experience and commitment, I will not settle for less than the salary requested. Nor am I willing to accept a deal, bonuses in lieu of cash designed for me to prove myself (although bonuses in addition to will be welcome with open arms and heartfelt gratitude), nor will I accept future stock options or any other form of payment outside of the indicated cashflow requirements.
I am willing to relocate or travel to fulfill my obligations. I offer these terms, and upon acceptance, this contract will be in effect for the next 5 years."
Based on this contract, which took out the 'hows', I was then easily able to identify my intentions (my 'what'):
I am...
My intentions were very simple. I've heard before that I should focus on being the CEO of my life rather than the Manager. While I understood at some level what that meant, I also find it infinitely difficult to let go of 'how' something needs to look, or 'how' it should show up. I don't know if I'm just a little slow on the uptake and that's why it has taken me so long to wrap my head around this concept, or if I simply wasn't ready (I'm going for the latter - I'm not partial to seeing myself as slow, I still have some ego in tact!).
So I started by scripting a contract with the Universe, agreeing to do X in exchange for Y. Now, before I share that contract with you, I need to clarify a few things so that the wording makes sense to you.
Per my previous postings regarding the Martyr Archetype that I discovered within myself (uh-huh), I found a definition in Carolyne Myss' book, "Sacred Contracts" that said, "The Martyr is...a person who has learned to utilize a combination of service and suffering for others as the primary means of controlling and manipulating her environment."
Well, isn't that cute - NOT! However, cute or not, it was true. I wasn't a Martyr with respect to how I interacted with others, but with how I interacted with money. Sure, I'll take that job for less money and the promise of bonuses that never arrive just so I can do the work I love to do. I'd love to have your stock options, going out of business? Guess those stocks won't be worth much will they, oh well, poor me! What I was doing was controlling my environment to maintain my internal financial set point. I was not to exceed $X a year and each time I'd come close, I would find a way to sabotage it. Why? Because I knew how to live within my current financial set point, by changing it, I would have to change everything, and you know how keen we are to do that!
Now I'll share the contract and hopefully it will make sense to you.
Here's the essence of the contract:
"Dear Universe, I open myself up to the unknown reality of what it will mean when I bypass my current financial set point. I know I created it as a form of control and I hereby relinquish this control and formally request a new, significantly higher, base annual salary. I no longer have a need for a financial set point, as I intend to grow my finances exponentially.
I formally request $X per year with 60% coming as residual income and 40% from earned income. Earned income will come via work I am meant to do, that I love to do and that serves my divine purpose.
I am in service to the Universe, and given my level of skill, experience and commitment, I will not settle for less than the salary requested. Nor am I willing to accept a deal, bonuses in lieu of cash designed for me to prove myself (although bonuses in addition to will be welcome with open arms and heartfelt gratitude), nor will I accept future stock options or any other form of payment outside of the indicated cashflow requirements.
I am willing to relocate or travel to fulfill my obligations. I offer these terms, and upon acceptance, this contract will be in effect for the next 5 years."
Based on this contract, which took out the 'hows', I was then easily able to identify my intentions (my 'what'):
I am...
- Clear and focused
- Grounded
- Financially Free
- In Service