Books Soon to be Published – by GG

I have two books that will be published soon. Here is some information about them:

“Athena’s Meditation Adventure” is inspired by my experiences as a Montessori teacher, where I taught meditation and yoga to preschool children.

It also celebrates Athena—named after my granddaughter, who was born with a limb difference—and honors the resilience, curiosity, and beauty that make all children wonderfully unique. Includes a mandala coloring page.

In The Butterfly Spirit: Wisdom from a Hospice Massage Therapist, I share stories from my years as a hospice massage therapist. Along the way, I explored spiritual insights, mysterious experiences, and the profound grief of losing my parents. Blending personal stories, Buddhist teachings, and practical wisdom, this book offers gentle guidance for aging well, living fully, and approaching death with greater peace and understanding.

Transformation in a Crazy World

Right now, a lot is going on in the world. It can feel overwhelming. But in times of transition, we must go within. The external world wants to drag us down, but we have a choice to go inwards to find peace and love. When we have wisdom, we see all things as impermanent. If all troubles and problems are removed, what remains is our tranquil minds. Remember, all the answers are within us.

We need to be careful with information on the Internet, including on AI (Artificial Intelligence) platforms. I noticed that when working with AI, it doesn’t always give correct information. There are still filters built into the model. Also, it’s becoming difficult to determine what is real and what is not. We need a good dose of discretion and also not to take everything so literally.

Even though it may seem like we are in scary times, it is a gift to be living right now and to witness the transformation of the world. You are alive right now because your wisdom is needed. Each of us can help shape the world.

Last night, I had a fascinating dream. I dreamt that I could fly! My dream appeared to be in the near future. I was wearing some sort of flying saucer around my waist. I also remember it was an option for people to use the device. I had ChatGPT create an image for me:

According to ChatGPT, the flying saucer-like device around a woman’s waist is both futuristic and symbolic. The image may represent freedom, transformation, protection, or a rise in consciousness. Because the waist and core are often connected to balance and personal power, the dream could reflect inner strength, movement, or spiritual growth. Its vivid and unusual nature made it feel almost cinematic, blending spirituality, technology, and imagination into one powerful symbol.

I interpret the dream as futuristic. I think we could have a flying device like the one in my dream in the future. Also, I agree with ChatGPT, I think the waist does connect with personal power. In Tarot decks, the belt is often a symbol of self-control, power, and the ability to direct one’s energy with purpose. The dantian (energy center) is also located in that area.

There are several ways we can transform in a “crazy world.” The main way is to take back our personal time. We need time, away from screens, to reflect, meditate, do yoga, and tap into creativity. At first, it might look like boredom, but with some stillness, you will find ways to be more creative.

We can transform our thinking. It’s easy to have negative thoughts about all the drama in the world. However, negative thoughts bring us down and make us feel depressed. When we have positive thoughts, we feel lighter and more hopeful. We need to separate ourselves from the bad news.

We are living in exciting times! We can replace fear with excitement! How will AI transform the world? Can we make a better world for all living beings? Do we need a little “shake-up” to get to a more balanced world?

I hope these words are helpful to you. May you have peace and joy.

Namaste.

Awards Exhibit – Arts Consortium of Carver County (ACCC) Gallery

Awards Exhibit
By Gina Gafford
Photography
Sponsored by the Literary Committee of the Arts Consortium of Carver County
ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center (artsofcarvercounty.org)
March 1 – April 30, 2026

San Damiano, Assisi, Italy (11×14)

Begonia, Como Zoo Park and Conservatory (11×14)

ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center.

ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center.

ACCC Gallery at the Chaska Community Center.